Vasilyev explored the Alexander Archipelago and the many coastal Islands in the area. In 1809 he surveyed the western shore of Baranof Island and at an unknown date "died in the service." Navigator Ivan Vasilyev should not be confused with explorer Mikhail Vasilyev, or with another Captain Vasiliev about whom Krusenstern says: It is much to be regretted that the hydrographic works of a naval officer, Vasilief, who was in the employment of the American Company, were lost... Provided with a sextant and chronometer and with much zeal and attachment for his profession, he had during his sojourn in our American colonies made a complete survey of all of the Aleutian Islands without having had specific instructions to do so. Unfortunately he was drowned in Okhotsk harbor on his return from Americ