Empowering the Aleut region
Aleut Ventures, LLC is a subsidiary of The Aleut Corporation (Aleut), an Alaska Native corporation founded on June 21, 1972 as one of the 12 Alaska Native regional corporations created under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. Aleut is a mission-driven corporation with businesses in several industries, including renewable energy, mechanical contracting, port logistics, and travel. Its prime focus is leveraging a unique position in the Aleut region to generate opportunities for its more than 4,200 shareholders.
Aleut Ventures centers its work in the communities of Adak and Cold Bay, with an eye toward the economic empowerment of residents. It can be challenging, as the Aleutians are some of Alaska’s most remote locations, with Adak more than 1,200 miles from Anchorage and equidistant from Tokyo, Japan and Seattle, Washington. Featuring operational pillars of fuel distribution, port services, and now, tourism, Aleut Ventures is integrating new and innovative systems for community growth in the region.
The Aleut Region
Protecting Native Land
One of the most important aspects of Aleut Ventures is through the continued preservation and protection of Aleut’s lands. Aleut owns 47,150 of Adak Island’s 180,000 total acreage, transferred over in 2004 through an agreement with the United States government. This land includes historical and archaeological sites, former military buildings, and the downtown area of Adak city.
A key element of land preservation is through Aleut’s Land Use Permit program, granting access to these ancestral lands on Adak Island. Through the permit, visitors to the island can discover the breathtaking beauty and experience the unique terrain of Adak Island. With a diverse mix of adventurous activities that include exploring WWII history, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying water activities, Adak has something for everyone. Trek across mountains, coastlines, and tundra for stunning views, or dive into rich wildlife habitats perfect for bird watching and photography. For those looking for a deeper adventure, hunting and camping opportunities abound.
It’s easy to secure a permit, available on Aleut’s website. It’s important to note that the permit is required for any non-resident wishing to explore Adak Island, and guests will be advised of this necessity before booking with Adak Island Inn. Permit cost is determined based on usage and trip duration. Daily permits are available for $20/day, weekly permits are available for $40/week, and seasonal 6-month permits are available for $60.
Use of Aleut lands without a permit and entering Aleut-owned buildings regardless of permit status is considered trespassing under Alaska State law.
Stay at Adak Island Inn
From the 1940s to 1997, Adak Island was home to the United States Army Air, Air Force, and Navy, with thousands of service members and their families stationed there. Once the base closed, however, facilities were left behind, and now, visitors to Adak are able to utilize the hospitality of Aleut Ventures through Adak Island Inn.
Centrally located in downtown Adak, Adak Island Inn is a collection of 40 fully furnished townhomes offering visitors and residents alike short-term, long-term, and seasonal rentals. Each move-in ready two-bedroom and two-bathroom townhome has a refrigerator, stove, washer, dryer, and dishwasher, as well as a kitchen stocked with all the dishes and utensils necessary for a comfortable stay.
Close to Adak’s few shops and restaurants, Adak Island Inn is the perfect place to spend time adventuring in an Alaska destination few others get to experience. The local flavor of Adak is evident at the 100 Knot Stop, open evenings four nights a week (it’s also the former daycare center for the military base). The Tundra Tavern is the local hang-out for beverages and food, and Adak Soul is open seven days a week serving home cooked meals if guests prefer to eat out while visiting.
Putting the ‘adventure’ in Aleut Ventures
An exciting addition to Aleut Ventures is the wide range of activities offered to guests. Recognizing that most people cannot transport their outdoor toys from Anchorage, Aleut Ventures has created a full cache of equipment necessary for a well-rounded Adak Island experience.
Stand-up paddleboarding is available, with recommendations for excursions in the calm waters of Clam Lagoon, Andrew Lake, or within the Adak Small Boat Harbor. Gliding around these scenic environments surrounded by Adak’s unique wildlife and breathtaking scenery is a SUP experience like none other. Paddleboard rentals are $25/day and include a paddleboard, paddle, and live vest. Suitable for first-time and experienced SUP users.
Fishing has always been a staple of the Unangax̂ people, and Aleut Ventures provides access to fishing gear for visitors. Whether interested in fishing in the briny waters along Adak Island’s coastlines, or dropping a line into freshwater lakes, there are several options available. For $15/day, guests may rent fishing gear consisting of up to four rods and associated tackle.
Brand-new for 2025 is the addition of four fat-tire e-bikes, available for rent by visitors wishing to explore Adak’s many gravel roads across the island. Using human power to explore the island is also another way for Aleut Ventures to promote sustainable tourism efforts within this fragile ecosystem.
Curious about The Aleut Corporation, its history and present-day mission to serve its communities and 4,200+ Unangax̂ shareholders? View “Against All Odds”, Aleut’s 45-minute documentary film that details the corporation’s creation and showcases the importance of the region, its people, and future generations.