Spanish Expeditions to Alaska

Spanish expeditions to Alaska took place in the 1770s, when reports of Russian expansion from Kamchatka into North America pushed Spain to explore the Northwest Coast. Voyages in 1775 and 1779 reached Alaskan waters [1].

Background

The Canadian Encyclopedia explains that in the 1770s reports of Russian expansion from Kamchatka into North America pushed Spain to explore the coast, with Mexico viceroyalty handling Pacific operations north of San Blas [1].

1774: Juan Perez

Juan Perez sailed north from Mexico and reached Haida Gwaii, where Haida people paddled out in canoes to trade. He anchored off Nootka Sound on Vancouver Island but did not land and, fearful of shipwreck, did not claim the land. The results were inconclusive [1].

1775: Bodega y Quadra

In 1775 Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Quadra sailed two ships to Alaska, reaching about 58 degrees 30 minutes north. He took possession of the land and found good harbours on Prince of Wales Island [1].

1779: Arteaga and Bodega y Quadra

In 1779 Ignacio de Arteaga and Bodega y Quadra sailed to Bucareli Bay and explored as far as Cook Inlet. The expedition made scientific charts and ethnological records, but Spain did not publish them. The article notes this came while James Cook third Pacific voyage (1776 to 1779) was underway, and that Spain missed Cook entirely [1].

FAQs

Why did Spain explore Alaska? Reports of Russian expansion from Kamchatka into North America [1].

How far did Bodega y Quadra sail in 1775? To about 58 degrees 30 minutes north, where he took possession of the land [1].

Where did the 1779 expedition go? To Bucareli Bay and as far as Cook Inlet [1].

Sources

1. The Canadian Encyclopedia: Spanish Exploration

Editorially reviewed by Specialty Digest Editorial TeamLast reviewed November 14, 2026Researched and drafted with AI assistanceReport an issue