A (Business) Climate Change
BY HUNTER H. McINTOSH
We are back! Well, THE OBSERVER is back—we never left. After a roughly five-year hiatus, we are pleased to begin publishing this magazine again, with an important message to go with it.
For over 40 years, The Boat Company has operated as the world’s only not-for-profit luxury cruise operation. During this time, we have relied on the substantial support of The McIntosh Foundation—which started a program called The Southeast Alaska Conservation Cruises, now known as The Boat Company—and annual sales from guest reservations. Furthermore, our trips often resulted in donations from guests who became impassioned about SE Alaska and TBC's mission following their experience. We are so grateful to all of those who have made generous donations towards our mission—thank you!
However, COVID really changed things. The necessary lull in hosting trips during the pandemic has resulted in a slow burn back to the fire we were on with guest reservations. In years past, trips would sell out years in advance—but the last few years have been a different climate. Additionally, grant support from other organizations is down, while the maintenance costs and operation requirements of our beloved, vintage fleet continue to rise.
Even though we have made a number of solicitations in the past during the holiday season, we must expand our fundraising efforts exponentially in order to benefit the organization's upkeep and initiatives. As stated earlier, The Boat Company is unique as a 501c3 nonprofit tour operator. This means that donations are tax-deductible, and our finances are public records. We will be exploring different ways to bring in support for TBC so that we can continue to provide unforgettable eco-tourism experiences and make a difference in SE Alaska and beyond (see the story on page 52).
Every penny raised will go towards critical conservation projects, care for our boats (see page 6 to see how the LISERON got a much-needed rehab over the winter), important overhead costs (like salaries for our amazing, hard-working crew who you can learn more about on page 24), and much more. Additionally, we are excited to partner with other regional nonprofit organizations—like Fortress of the Bear—to further our impact.
I look forward to personally speaking with all who would like to get involved. We will be reaching out in the coming months, but if you can't wait to hear from us, please reach out to me directly at the contact info below. Your support for The Boat Company will continue our mission of Protecting, Preserving, and fighting for the future of The Tongass National Forest.
Until next time—thank you for your ongoing support—and Fair Winds and Following Seas.
320 Town Plaza Avenue, Suite 130 Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 hunter@theboatcompany.org
202.468.8055 (mobile)
*The Boat Company is a 501c3 nonprofit #12-345678.
Fishing in Alaska with a Jackson Coosa HD Kayak
BOARD
Our crew was outstanding. From the captain on down, all were friendly, accommodating, and enthusiastic about Alaska . MARK AND WENDY S. | LISERON | JULY 2023
NEW LIFE ~ for the ~ LISERON
When all the guests have departed, and the boats make their way back down the coast to our current home in Reedsport, Oregon, they are not just tucked away and put up until next season. In most cases, we have a laundry list of projects that need to be completed from mid-September until March when the summer seasonal crew return to prep for another Alaskan Tour.
The following are yard reports over a six-week period for the MV LISERON—le Grand Dame—our wooden hulled Queen. The offseason crew this year is made up of Capt. Jim Jefferson, first mates Dylan Wheatly and Brent Holebrook, Scott Holebrook (Brent's twin brother and a former crew member), engineers Joe Schalk and Ben Capobianco, and guest coordinator/deckhand Shelley Meunch. It is safe to say that had their hands beyond full!
We are so grateful to this exceptional team who poured their talents, expertise, and passion into the LISERON this winter! Get to know them better in our Crew report on page 24.
Now, on to the weekly musings of Captain Jim Jefferson...
"Busy week down / over here in Reedsport for the week of January 14 to the 20th, 2024.
On Monday we prepped LISERON for getting hauled out at 3 am on Tuesday morning. The stars aligned - as it was moved to Tuesday afternoon. We tied up at 3 pm at the shipyard, and the fun began. We were moved back into the slip and Albert the diver and head electrician positioned the travel lift straps and the bilge chocks blocks. The weather took a turn for the worse with wind, rain, and darkness, but by 7:30 pm LISERON was hauled out and sitting on dryland.
The next day the shipyard power washed the hull and removed the zincs / anodes. We shifted our work to Mist Cove for the day and Henry took apart the MC noisy galley fan blower system and we have ordered a new motor and belts – we are guessing that it has never been apart – so after 24 years it owes us nothing."
"Thursday was the big LISERON move into the barn, and we all showed up after lunch to set up shore power, and laid down carpet and deck protection."
"Fun began on Friday—starting to strip the Portuguese Bridge and walk throughs with the yard for the mechanical / fabrication work lists. The big ones are getting all the thru hulls taken apart and eventually inspected by the Coast Guard. Rob and Bud are taking care of that—they also did the same job in 2021 so their familiarity helps speed it up a bit."
"Big upcoming projects for the fabrication team are pump mounts for the LISERON steering motor/pump assembly and reworking how the main engine exhaust hangers bolt into the overhead in the engine room. Previously the hangers were done a bit too close to the wood, and things are getting a bit hot in the deck beams.
Additional items will include getting the propellers pulled to make proper baseline measurements of the cutless bearings both in the struts and the stern tubes. The propellers were last off in 2019, so with the new engines it's time for a look-see. They will also do an engine alignment once we are back in the water.
Dylan and Tadd have already on Friday alone made great strides in the Portuguese Bridge Project."
"Other big news—Joe the Engineer and Shelley arrived on Friday and both went right to work. They also both made up for lost time by working this weekend. Joe started by fixing the LISERON convection motor on the stove, and he has also taken over the Oily Water Separator project from me. Shelley has been stripping varnish and has begun the inventory process of the engineering department.
The new crane valve body assembly also arrived on Friday and Henry is installing that. No more rusty crane valves – very exciting."
"The Fred Wahl Carpenter team starts on Monday – chasing the rot in the houses. And Hatton Marine is showing up for the generator top-end rebuilds. Plus, on Tuesday we have a boom crane showing up for a month to help us with varnish and paint, much like the one we rented in 2021 for the Mist Cove Portuguese Bridge varnish job."
"Well, a lot has happened in the last three weeks since the last update. Overall picture, lots of work on just about everything. Our planned sort of a 'little carpentry and some varnish' has now turned into a mini refit of sorts - both in the carpentry and engineering departments.
Lots of carpentry dealing with water-damaged areas. Much like in houses, the devil is in the details, and it's tough to keep the water out from every corner, window, or door. Many of the rotten areas had caulking or epoxy that had failed over the years. In several cases, we are revisiting areas that were repaired sometime in the past. Essentially once you find a rotten section you keep cutting out the rot until you reach some good wood to tie into.
"And yes, those wires you see are actually the wires in ceiling of stateroom 4. That explains the leak….."
"From the bow to the stern:
The bridge had a pile of rotten spots including the front center window, around both doors, and several of the windows. Once we drilled an exploratory hole below the window, the trapped water was dripping out for three days.
The skiff deck cabin house starboard side had a huge section that was removed–and basically, a new wall and corner were installed. Complete with the rounded corner detail."
"Another large area is just outside the captain's cabin, the rotten deck timbers were removed and spliced and 'sistered' in new deck beams and outer trim pieces. In many cases of rot and decay, the wooden piece in question can be viewed like a straw. From the side the wood is often impervious to water – but add water to the end grain and you have created a capillary action that just draws the moisture in—which then leads to rot.
We also found extensive rot in the port quarter which led to a new corner being fabricated. You can see the “straw effect” here in action. The water entered at the corner and simply followed the grain pattern."
"In the land of fabrication and welding: The new steering pump bases are installed and do double duty as drip pans. The steering gear rams also now have a guard covering the entire unit. The engines have received some awesome handrail guards to match those done on the Mist Cove, and also a foot guard – to keep tools from rolling into the bilges.
We have also redone how the engine exhausts hang from the overhead beams. We have changed the hangers, added some heat insulation, and bolted the hangers with isolation bushings through the deck beams.
Lots of work in the refrigeration corner –new units for the reach and walks-in, new wiring, and a new intake and discharge saltwater manifold.
Not to be outdone the first layer of varnish was completed this past Saturday.
We have replaced about 20 of the over 200 mahogany boards on the Portuguese Bridge and the yard has done extensive work on the bridge window sills. To make the varnish on the bridge easier, we have pulled the mast out, and that too is getting a new varnish job with modern-day LED spreader lights as an upgrade, plus new wiring which will make pulling the mast out easier in the future, and also allow for easier troubleshooting any electrical issues with the anchor or spreader lights."
"The winter crew has grown by several folks. Brent is here and Scott his brother has joined us for the winter, and Ben C is helping us out in the engineering department.
The USCG did their required hull exam on Thursday, the yard should start painting the hull shortly.
And amongst all the above - April, Drenda, and myself attended the 4-day PVA conference in Portland, Oregon. We spent several days in seminars learning everything under the sun in the land of Passenger Vessels – new industry rules, insurance seminars, best hiring practices, food and beverage changes in the industry, maintenance programs etc. The amount of knowledge that we were presented with was impressive.
In terms of cool things to play with at work—the boom crane has been getting some serious use. Sometimes more than 10 hours a day of bucket time. It's been a busy 3 weeks…."
"Projects are progressing towards a back-in-the-water date for the end of the month. Some milestones were hit—washer and dryer were craned into the old tool room, the bottom was painted with anti-fouling paint, the varnish team has started laying down the varnish in weekend shifts / rotations, and the new stew land corner now awaits its final touches.
LISERON also had her bi-annual USCG machinery space walk-through. Representatives of both the Coos Bay office and the Portland District office did their walkthroughs. The inspection can be easily handled by our local office, but Portland likes to send a bunch of folks to see how a big wooden boat is inspected, and we like to believe that we set the standard. In this inspection the USCG is looking to make sure the watertight doors work, they check all the underwater valves and confirm that no rotten planks are falling off the boat, steering and rudders work."
"The steward corner will benefit the stewards immensely and has added much-needed storage for linens, towels, etc. It will be a game changer for that department. If time allows, we will add some small wall cabinets. I am sure that every past steward will be jealous.
"The Varnish Team has been diligently doing the final sanding and prepping on the wheelhouse trim and doors and this weekend they have been laying down the coats of varnish."
"In the category of cool tools –we have access to a 25-ton gantry crane. This week we “flew in” a new washer and dryer into the tool room with it. We also had the LISERON dishwasher out for service -and here it is getting craned aboard.
We have also started to put together the LISERON anchor chain and paint all the shot markers. Each shot represents 90 feet. To make it easier for all parties involved we label each shot in order starting at the anchor - red, white, and blue, then repeat. Keeps it simple and patriotic.
An example would be anchoring at Saook Bay—the general rule of thumb is 3 times the water depth is how much chain you put out—the water at Saook is about 130 feet, so it takes about four shots to anchor-Red-White-Blue-Red. Observant folks may also notice a painted section that is red/white/blue— that means that when you haul back the anchor - the anchor is at the waterline—so it is getting close, so you better get ready and pay attention. The old versus the new chain—roughly 4700 lb! Here is Joe and Ben assembling the Kenter Links for the anchor chain."
"Not to be forgotten MIST COVE has also received some love this past week. Technicians from ZF were here to change out a leaky warrantied pan gasket on the starboard reverse gear. Here is the technician Colton under the engine….
Joe and Ben have also been getting the MIST COVE stove back together. After a two-month back ordered parts delay—much needed parts are finally starting to arrive….!
We have also started doing Fire-up Fridays in which we wake up all the sleepy machinery in anticipation of a season in Alaska. We will slowly add items to the Fire up Fridays— from skiffs, to cranes, to generators, to the water makers and everything else in between."
"And, finally, in donut news... part of the joy of working on the weekends is the donuts from the Sugar Shack.
This weekend there was a $1 bet to see who could eat one of the Sugar Shack's famous Big Foot Donuts in one sitting. Only Tadd took the challenge – he only made it 2/3 of the way through before he gave up."
—Capt. Jim Jefferson
“Great efforts by entire crew to make the trip memorable!”
ROBERT M. | LISERON | AUGUST 2022
The Ultimate Ask
BY PARKER THOMAS
The Boat Company helped me craft the perfect engagement.
When I was planning to ask my fiancée Madison to marry me, I knew that I wanted it to be somewhere incredibly beautiful and I of course knew that it had to be an event that neither one of us would forget. Thankfully, we had a family trip with close family friends lined up for Southeast Alaska with The Boat Company. The inside passage was calling to me.
Knowing Alaska’s fabled beauty, having had the chance to see this ethereal land by boat on several previous occasions with family and friends, the plan suddenly came together in my mind.
Midweek into a picturesque trip, we were ushered away by our friend Hunter McIntosh (President of The Boat Company) to a secret location, off the beaten path under the auspices of a promotional photoshoot. Hunter and I had planned for two or three potential locations and scenarios dependent on weather, etc.
We were guided to a place that can only be described as quintessential Alaska—a rushing waterfall, deep blue water, soaring mountains, and vibrant wildlife surrounding us.
As I asked my life partner the most important question of my life, we were joined by a family of otters who watched intently, and a group of seals diligently hunting for fish. It was a moment that can only be imagined, much like something you would envision in a Disney movie.
Luckily for me, she said yes!
To say that the Boat Company made our dreams a reality is an understatement. They pulled out all the stops. Hunter had a chilled bottle of champaign hidden away in his backpack with champaign flutes for Madison and I, as well as extra flutes for my parents waiting not to far away, but out of sight. We toasted our engagement, we toasted to new adventures, and then we proceeded to hike up the mountain to naturally occurring sulfur hot springs to partake in ice cold polar plunges followed by relaxing periods in the natural hot springs, this time at the top of the waterfall. The chef’s helped plan a gorgeous dinner surrounded by new friends, and generous and kind staff who were as excited for us as anyone else on the boat.
This trip was one of many incredible memories, not the least of which being an incredible engagement, and neither of us can imagine it being possible without The Boat Company. If you want to see Alaska - the true Alaska—while making new family for life, there’s no other choice. We cannot wait to return!
“ I cannot envision any aspect of our trip that could have been improved.
”
MARGARET H. | LISERON | JULY/AUGUST 2022
TBC's team share a collective passion for protecting the Tongass, cruising Southeast Alaska, and creating the best guest experience possible—while bringing together a wide variety of backgrounds and talents that span every corner of the globe.
The Boat Company's CREW
M/V LISERON
CAPTAIN
Clifton Miller
liseroncapt@theboatcompany.org
Clifton Miller has lived and worked in Alaska for over 15 years. He moved up to Alaska to attend University of Alaska Southeast and study Hydrology and Glaciation, finding adventure as much as possible. Every summer season he has spent guiding on the water, whether it be fly fishing, hiking, kayaking or boating. Four of those summers were aboard Mist Cove and Liseron working from deckhand up to First Mate. Clifton has captained several other passenger vessels in Southeast and is very excited to be back onboard with TBC for his inaugural season as captain of Liseron. During the offseason, Clifton and his wife, Giselle, can be found on their 38ft sailboat in Mexico, cruising the islands of the South Pacific and beyond. One thing is for sure about Clifton: he is never too far from the water, he is passionate about boating and he loves sharing the magic of cruising in Southeast Alaska. He hopes to continue maximizing his exposure to fluid media, be it on a boat or on the snow!
FIRST MATE
Dylan Whitney
"Hi, my name is Dylan and during the summer season I work as the first mate on the M/V Liseron. In the winter I reside in coastal Oregon, acting as a caretaker for both The Boat Company vessels and manage some of the boats major deck projects. I am originally from the east coast so in my free time I like to explore new places in the Pacific Northwest, forage for mushrooms in the fall and fish for steelhead in the winter."
ENGINEER
Ben Capobianco
"My name is Ben. I am a seasoned sailor as well as a Navy Veteran. I live in Florida with my son Grayson, a few chickens, a dog named Turbo, and a pet Alligator named Coco. Ask me and I'll show you pictures of any one of them! I like to road trip, especially on my motorcycle and travel in the off-season quiet frequently. I've had the good fortune in my career to travel and see a good chunk of the world but still looking for the next adventure."
GUEST COORDINATOR
Margo Finch
liserongc@theboatcompany.org
"My name is Margo and I am the guest coordinator on the Liseron. Being born and raised in the PNW, I have always had a close connection to the oceans, mountains, and forests—I grew up exploring in my own backyard. I am very passionate about exploring wild places, conserving our forests and wildlife, and photography! When I’m not onboard with TBC, you can find me camping in the mountains with a cup of coffee in my hands, traveling the world with my camera, or wildlife spotting in a National park. I’m excited to share my enthusiasm for adventure and my love for Alaska this summer with you!"
HEAD CHEF
Kathryn “Kya” Long
"I’m from the Seattle area and have spent my whole life around and on the water. I am passionate about creating a culinary experience that reflects the natural surroundings you will be exploring in Southeast Alaska, and pursuing sustainable fishing and agriculture practices, holistic wellness through food, and above all, community!"
ASSISTANT CHEF
Joey Rivera
"My name is Joseph V. Rivera. I'm from San Diego and have been cooking professionally for 11 years. I have a passion for food and people—I love to share stories and past adventures. My style of cooking is elevated comfort food. I love to create dishes that make people smile and feel like a hug from inside. My background is Latin-based flavors, however through years of experience moving to different restaurants, I became stronger in other cuisine. I have worked from small mom-andpop shops to Michelin star restaurants, and everything in-between."
CHIEF STEWARD
Marlena Rooney-Wilcox
"Hello, my name is Marlena, I'll be your Chief Stew this season aboard the Liseron. When I'm not tidying up you'll find me scanning the horizon for whales, and the beaches for bears. When I'm home I stare lovingly at my plant collection, scheme ways to move to France, and spend time in the sun--when available. I love my foster dogs, talking about my dog, my twin and spending time with Lexi and her kitties. I'm grateful to be spending another beautiful season in Alaska."
ASSISTANT STEWARD
Lexi Brassard
"My name is Lexi and I'll be working as a Steward for The Boat Company during the 2024 season. While this won't be my first time working tourism in Alaska, it will be my first time working on a boat, and I'm so excited for this new adventure! When I'm home I enjoy hanging out with my two cats, going to cafes with friends, hiking, and reading."
NATURALIST ("NATTY")
Christian Derochers
lisnaturalist@theboatcompany.org
"Hello! My name is Christian Desrochers and I’m the Naturalist aboard the Liseron. This will be my seventh year guiding in southeast Alaska, and my specialties are finding tasty wild foods and being a huge nerd about lichens, fungi, big trees, and pretty much everything else we encounter in the Tongass. I love to learn! When I’m not working, I’m typically overseas hanging out in the forest by myself, eating too much food, and enjoying a good glass (or two) of wine. Also, occasionally spotted playing pool with a glass of rye whiskey in hand."
2ND MATE
Pete Katsarelis
Peter grew up on the Gulf coast of Florida where he developed his passion for fishing. He has been a licensed guide/charter captain for almost 30 years holding a 200-ton USCG Master license. While in Florida, he primarily focuses on flyfishing for redfish, snook, bonefish and tarpon. This is Peter’s fourth season with the Boat Company as a guide.
DECKHAND
Misty Baker
"I am a native of Louisiana and have been a mariner since 2005 starting my life long boating career in Seward, Alaska. I instantly fell in love with the variety of wild life and living on the water. After Alaska, I went on to follow the humpback whales migrational journey as a naturalist and first mate for the Pacific Whale Foundation in Hawaii. Several years ago, I went on to get my 100 ton captains license in Americans oldest seaport, Gloucester, Massachusetts. I have successfully filled the roles of boat captain, first mate, lead deckhand, kayak/hiking guide, head stewardess, and crew chef over the years. I am an avid sailor who has crossed the Atlantic three times, crewed several deliveries and placed in the Mount Gay Cup in Barbados for sailing. Besides my time spent on the water, I also lead a fire crew for the state of Oregon for 4 summers as an engine boss. I have helped open and run several restaurants and a brewery. Last year I was an expedition guide for Hurtigruten Expeditions in Alaska and the year prior I spent the season in Whittier as chief stewardess/kayak guide/mate for North Pacific Expedition charters and I’m excited to be joining The Boat Company! In addition to working, I love to travel and has been to 75 countries and countless islands and still counting! I love sailing, camping, traveling, fishing, kayaking, hiking, cooking and meeting new people."
DECKHAND
Hunter Fields
"Hi, my name is Hunter Fields, born and raised in Jacksonville Florida; proudly working for The Boat Company in Southeast Alaska. Growing up in Northeast Florida, being out on the water was a way of life. Most of the memories I hold closest in my heart were made with my father and friends fishing the flood tides, spending countless hours wading, searching for that perfect bite. My favorite moments are shared around a family dinner table with fish we harvested that my grandmother and mother have prepared. Throughout my formative years in school, I played many sports: football and baseball were my favorites, but nothing captivated my imagination like time spent in nature. Once I spent enough time in these ecosystems, I came to understand the impact and delicate balance we as caretakers of this land must strive to maintain. As my father taught me, a true angler, sportsman, outdoors enthusiast; whatever you may call it, is by necessity a conservationist. This is what drew me to work with The Boat Company. Not only providing completely unique, high-quality cruises through the stunning landscape of Southeast Alaska but their mission to protect and preserve the area for the future. Thank you for taking the time to read a little about me. May the winds be in your favor and your lines taunt with fish."
M/V MIST COVE
CAPTAIN AND FLEET MANAGER
Jim Jefferson
mistcovecapt@theboatcompany.org
"I am celebrating 14 years with the Boat Company in 2024, currently sailing as the captain of the Mist Cove and Fleet Manager of both vessels. I first sailed as the Mate aboard Liseron in 2004 and eventually captain before moving my flag over to the Mist Cove. I particularly enjoy the spectacular scenery and natural beauty of Southeast Alaska and all it has to offer, and I love to share my favorite anchorages and picturesque vistas with both crew and guests alike. I was originally pursuing a postgraduate degree in Oceanography, when I fell in love with boats. I have worked on a well-rounded mix of jobs and ships since then—including research vessels in the Gulf of Maine supporting the Shoals Marine Laboratory, traditionally rigged sail training vessels that plied the waters between Nova Scotia and Venezuela, and tugboats in Maine towing cement for the Boston Big Dig project. In between boat hitches my time has been spent as a furniture maker, post and beam carpenter, a shipwright, and ships systems engineer and I also own and operate Knockabout Toys, a wooden toy truck business. When not in Alaska, I can be found back home in Maine slowly renovating my 1850 farmhouse, and during the depths of winter, at the US National Toboggan Championships. I have been racing and building toboggans since 2001 and have fielded teams have won over 25 trophies including 7 Championship Titles!"
FIRST MATE
Brent Holbrook
"I began my career with The Boat Company in 2011 as a deckhand on the Mist Cove. I spent the next several years sailing on both Mist Cove and Liseron until becoming First Mate on Mist Cove in 2018. When we are back up in Alaska for the summer season I truly feel at home. Every year I look forward to sharing this place with our TBC family and friends both new and old. When I’m not in Alaska or our home port in Reedsport, OR, I enjoy surfing, fishing, and diving in Latin America. See you on the water!"
ENGINEER
Joe Schalk
"Combining a diverse array of experiences, I proudly serve as the lead engineer at The Boat Company. With a background steeped in industrial process engineering and a captain expertise honed through navigating various vessels, I bring a wealth of skills to our team. My academic journey, marked by a bachelors degree in Conservation Biology and a masters in Zoology, reflects my deep-rooted passion for understanding complex systems. Drawing parallels between wildlife ecosystems and the intricate workings of our vessels, I prioritize safety and efficiency in all operations. My dedication to conservation stems from a desire to preserve the beauty of our natural world including Southeast Alaska, a region I eagerly anticipate exploring. Fun facts about me—I am the 2002 Seneca County Fair gravity wagon backing champion; and I caught on film a marine iguana feeding underwater on Fernandina Island in the Galapagos, a very rare sighting! I am excited to continue this journey with TBC, offering guests unforgettable adventures while upholding our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship."
GUEST COORDINATOR
Shelley Muench
mistcovegc@theboatcompany.org
"I started my Boat Company adventure in 2017 on the Liseron and I’m currently the guest coordinator on the Mist Cove! I have 18 years of experience in hospitality and 10 years of experience in wilderness guiding/outdoor education. Onboard I spend my time making sure our guests have the trip of a lifetime! You also might spot me guiding fly fishing, hiking, and kayaking activities. In the off season you can find me walking shelter dogs in Reedsport, Oregon or soaking up the sun on the beaches of Baja."
HEAD CHEF
Gigi Nguyen
Chef Gigi specializes in Southeast Asian cuisines and fusing global dishes together to find the perfect balance of savory umami flavors. She believes in being inclusive when it comes to food by accommodating all dietary needs while taking your taste buds on a culinary adventure that will pair well with the upcoming Alaska tour!
ASSISTANT CHEF
Em Hagelin
"I am the Assistant Chef and Baker aboard the Mist Cove, responsible for all of the fresh bread and delicious desserts you may be partaking of. I also assist the Head Chef with the preparation and plating of your meals. During my time when I am back home in the not-so-sunny Seattle, I can usually be found in a backwoods road in the mountains with the music up and the windows down enjoy the beauty of the forest and the mountains."
CHIEF STEWARD
Jade Lagestee
"I grew up in the concrete jungle of South Side Chicago suburbia before hightailing it to the West Coast at 21. Los Angeles raised me into the adventurous, outdoors-seeking, adrenaline junkie I am today. If I’m not kiteboarding in the Philippines, summiting Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, or rock climbing in Cuba, you can find me in a cozy corner with a chai latte in hand while reading a book and listening to Lo-Fi simultaneously. I am excited to be back in Alaska for my second summer, and I cannot wait to show you the breathtaking wonders this incredible little nugget of the world has to offer."
ASSISTANT STEWARD
Ryn Waldrop
"What do you do when you see every day as an adventure and all your kids have moved out on their own? You hop on a boat! Most of my career was spent as a people manager in the call center industry. While I loved what I did, it wasn’t adventurous. I’m now looking forward to finding adventure where ever it may be—like my most recent job working as an equipment operator in the Arctic Circle. I enjoy reading, have a passion for animals, and love being anywhere that has a beach! Spending time with family and friends is also high on my list. Being on the water is one of my favorite places to be so I know this is going to be a fabulous season helping guests have one of the most memorable adventures imaginable."
NATURALIST ("NATTY")
Charlie Cahill
misnaturalist@theboatcompany.org
"Hi everyone—Charlie here—your naturalist on the Mist Cove for the summer. After some questionable life decisions had led to a stint in academia as a German historian and another stint in the software industry, I decided to restructure my life around being outside in beautiful places. And once I found SE Alaska I was hooked! After my first season on the Mist Cove last year, I skipped winter by hiking around in Argentina as well as doing some boat deliveries in Central America. I can’t wait to return and explore the Tongass with you all this summer!"
2ND MATE
Dan Carter
"Hi, I'm Dan—a Deckhand, Fish Guide, and Second Mate aboard the Mist Cove. I’ve worked on, in, or under the water from Salvage to Sail, and motor yacht captaining for more than 20 years. When I'm not in Alaska, I enjoy scallop diving and captaining in Nantucket, viewing New England foliage, Dive boat captaining in Kona HI, and sail and motor yacht deliveries, from Maine to the Caribbean/ Mediterranean. You might also find me turning wrenches on my next project car!"
DECKHAND
Ben Duffty
"Hello I’m Ben. It will be my second time working with The Boat Company. This season, I will be one of the deckhands/guides. I love being outdoors and experiencing nature. Ive worked with research vessels and sail training ships. I've had the opportunity to swim with turtles, whales, and sharks in the clear waters of the Caribbean and seen stunning sunsets sailing in Maine, but Alaska is the most beautiful place I have seen with so much untouched nature!"
DECKHAND
Aly Hoyer
"Aly here—I was born and raised a Buckeye, boating on Lake Erie since I was tall enough to stand on the seat to see over the wheel. After graduating from BGSU, I sailed away from the winters and ended up in the Florida Keys in 2011. I grew up scuba diving with my dad, and traveled with my parents on dive trips, always aspiring to be a dive bum. Once I landed in the Keys I began professionally running dive boats, instructing, and commercial spearfishing for a few years before venturing into the world of bigger boats. After several years as a ‘yachtie’ transiting the east coast, Bahamas, and Carribean, I had the opportunity to head to South East Alaska last fall for a change of….well, everything! I can’t wait to get out on the water, share fish stories, and write a few new ones with you!"
DECKHAND
Vivian Corbin
"Hi! My name is Vivian, and I am from Vienna, Austria, but now I call New Hampshire home. This is my second season with The Boat Company, and I will be one of your deckhands, taking you fishing, hiking, kayaking, and exploring southeast Alaska. Before working for TBC, I managed a fishing fleet in Florida. I enjoy everything and anything that is outdoors!"
SUPPORT STAFF
DIRECTOR OF RESERVATIONS
Kathy Nissley
kathy@theboatcompany.org
"I started working for The Boat Company in 1990. I was a member of the Liseron crew in Alaska for a few years before transitioning over to the reservation office. I enjoy talking to our guests and helping them plan their next adventure. I enjoy yoga and spending time outdoors, and after several years of living on boats, I even enjoy doing yard work!"
OFFICE MANAGER & RESERVATIONS ASSISTANT
Miri Dimof
"I’ve been with The Boat Company for over ten years now. Working alongside Kathy, I handle a lot of the paperwork and occasional phone calls. I send out reminders for anything we need from guest lists to flights. My two dogs, Bailey and Ruby, join us every day at the office to keep us entertained and moving around. I’m a huge sports fan, especially basketball. During my free time I love to read a good fantasy book or build a new Lego set."
OFFICE ASSISTANT
Donna Dimof
Donna has worked for The Boat Company on and off for over thirteen years. She has an in-depth knowledge of the reservations process. She does everything from talking to passengers to finalizing confirmations. In the office she is the queen of the database. She is an avid birder. When not in the office she can be found at the beach or in her backyard feeding the birds and squirrels. Her two dogs, Bailey and Ruby are constantly chasing the squirrels away.
CONSERVATION COORDINATOR/COUNSEL
Paul Olsen
Paul Olson worked for The Boat Company as a contractor/private attorney for over a decade before formally joining the staff this year. Paul has fished commercially in Southeast Alaska since his childhood, and has operated a commercial salmon troller since the 1990s. He took periodic breaks from fishing during the early 2000s in order to obtain a law degree from the Northwestern School of Law at Lewis and Clark University in Portland, Oregon. Since that time he has continued to fish while moonlighting as a private attorney, doing conservation work for The Boat Company and partners involved in defending the Tongass National Forest from industrial logging and working to reduce the impacts of trawl bycatch on Alaska’s sport, subsistence, and sustainable small boat commercial fisheries. When long-time Boat Company captain, Conservation Director and permit administrator Joel Hanson retired over five years ago, Paul stepped in and help with all the filing, permitting, reporting and other work needed to ensure our clients can access the remote recreation experiences in Alaska.
DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE & IT COMPLIANCE
Jon C. King
"Ahoy! My name is Jon King and I’ve been with The Boat Company for almost a year. I started working as shore support in Juneau, helping to ensure our guests and their luggage made it to their destinations. I’ve worked in Retail Operations for much of my career and feel blessed to bring those skills to TBC. I’m an avid lover of games, sports, music, and movies. I can’t wait to see what our next season brings!"
SHORESIDE SUPPORT
Jon Ford
"Hi I am Jon Ford. My current role with The Boat Company is working as Shore Support in Juneau, AK. I am originally from Wisconsin where I obtained my BS in Business Administration at the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse in 1992. I have been lucky enough to call Alaska home for 24 summers working at a flyfishing lodge, aboard small passenger ships, and private yachts. My love of fishing is what drew me to Alaska and kept me coming back. My winters are filled with gardening, and fishing trips in La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico."
FOOD AND BEVERAGE MANAGER
April Agee
"Hi there! My name is April, and I have been working with The Boat Company since 2006, where I fell in love with boat life and S.E. Alaska. I started as an Assistant Chef, continued the following season as Head Chef, and did eight seasons on the Liseron, with a few on the Mist Cove. When not cooking, I enjoy taking my two Pomeranians—Mr. Mogi and Peanut Butter—on nature walks or photographing mushrooms, flowers, or anything nature wants to show me. Oh, and one other thing—Cribbage is my all-time favorite game, so if you see me on the boats, let's play a game!"
PAYROLL AND HUMAN RESOURCES
Drenda Tilton
"I’ve been doing bookkeeping and accounting for over 35 years for various private companies and CPA firms. I was born in Ohio and moved to Florida when I was 6, where I spent most of my life except for 5 years in California. My interest in the past was bowling, and I have traveled to many national and state tournaments—I even won a Pro-Am tournament! I have since retired from bowling and moved to Kentucky to spend more time with my twin grandchildren. I joined TBC in 2023 after preparing their accounting for several years prior at a CPA firm."
DESIGNER
Erica de Flamand-Shugg
Erica has been working with TBC for twenty years, upon meeting Hunter McIntosh at a tourism conference in early 2004. She graduated from the School of Fine Arts at UCONN, and has worked as a designer, photographer, and creative director in industries including adventure travel, conservation, finance, national security and defense, and education. She has been a featured artist in over a dozen gallery installations and spent four semesters as an adjunct college professor. In addition to cultivating er own design studio, she launched a nonprofit organization that provides nature-based mental health services and alternative therapies to an underserved area of North Carolina. Erica currently resides in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with her husband, two dogs, and a herd full of horses and donkeys.
PRINT & VIDEO MEDIA PRODUCTION
Justin Donnelly
With two decades of video production experience, Justin stands as a seasoned maestro in bringing stories to life through the lens. His journey has been adorned with a tapestry of creativity and innovation, shaping captivating narratives that resonate with audiences far and wide. Having lent his expertise to organizations such as The Boat Company, Cancer Can Rock, the Computer and Communication Industry Association, and the National Association of Court Reporters, Justin has left an indelible mark on the landscape. His accolades extend beyond the lens, with a notable induction into the Little League Hall of Fame. When he is not orchestrating visual symphonies, Justin channels his creative energy into his passions as a musician, football coach, and baseball coach.
WEB AND SOCIAL MEDIA
Marisa Maruli
"In explorations of remote places like the Arctic Circle, Siberia, Iceland and more, I’ve discovered that the 'unknown" does not only refer to unexplored places, but also to unknown, difficult-to-access circumstances or feelings. I am fascinated by the individual human experience, the power of the shifts within us, and inspiring people to discover what we truly want for our lives. As true to me as the quest to find our true selves, I am equally passionate about conservation. I believe that as we uncover the true facets of ourselves, we inherently acknowledge and honor our heritage and connectedness with Planet Earth. I carry out my missions through photography and journalism around the world."
PATRICIA H. | LISERON | MAY 2022 “
The crew was stellar. Energetic, well informed, welcoming, funny, professional.
”
The conservation community lost a powerhouse player earlier this year.
—Hunter McIntosh, President, The Boat Company " "
I met Christine Soderstrom in the late 90’s when she was working up on the Hill for a small nonprofit out of Alaska—I can’t recall whether it was Alaska Conservation Foundation or Alaska Rainforest Campaign. Either way, the minute I met Chris, we hit it off as we were both young and full of grandiose ideas of how we can “Save the Tongass!” Two young kids thinking they could stop timber harvest in the Tongass, just a little naive to the fact that the fight had been already going on for 30+ years. Shortly after meeting, the idea of running a Congressional fact-finding trip was hatched by our superiors and off we went. My job was to find the right trip at the right time of the season where members could get away from Capitol Hill long enough to make a trip of this worthwhile. I had the easy task—Chris had the unfortunate pleasure of wrangling commitments from Members and their staff, and then keeping on them to make sure that they actually showed up. It was a herculean task that Chris mastered early on, very successfully I might add, as we would eventually run these trips for three consecutive years. It was known between Chris and I as the “Herding Cats Trip.” Ultimately—after three years—Congress made things that much harder to run trips of this nature and we had to stop, but many stories rose from those three trips. What I think is most impressive about Christine—is that 20 years later—those members of Congress still in office have remained close friends of hers until the day we lost her.
Rest In Eternal Power, My Friend, and go stir the pot with my father up there.
The following was published by The Washington Post on March 24, 2024.
Christine Margaret Soderstrom 1969 -
2024
Christine Margaret Soderstrom died with her parents by her side on January 19, 2024, in Washington, DC, at the age of 54.
Chris was born in New York City on June 6, 1969, and at an early age moved to Baltimore, MD. She made many friends in the Roland Park neighborhood, became a crab-cracking expert and frequently visited the Maryland seashore.
In high school, Chris completed an Outward Bound program where she found her passion and life's work in nature. After graduating from the St. Paul's School for Girls in 1987, she moved west. At the University of Colorado, Boulder, she earned a BA in Environmental Studies.
After her junior year, Chris drove her pick-up truck to Alaska, and worked in a salmon cannery to earn money for more travel. After graduation, Chris stayed in the Rockies and surveyed birds for conservation in Wyoming and taught children how to ski in Idaho.
Chris launched her professional career in Washington, DC, earning her Master's of Science in International Environmental Policy from American University in 1998. Over the next two decades, she plied the halls of Congress as a strategist and lobbyist, working to protect the Arctic National Refuge and ensuring that her beloved Tongass National Forest in Alaska earned legislative protection from logging. She was especially passionate about the state's wild salmon, advocating to protect their ecosystems along the Pacific Rim. At the time of her death, she worked for The Boat Company, a not-for-profit organization preserving land and seascapes in southeastern Alaska.
While growing up in the suburbs, Chris was innately fearless outdoors, knowing that she belonged there. She would sleep in a forest, plunge into a dark river and swim under a waterfall without the slightest of hesitation.
Being sharp and funny, she may have at times nursed a desire to be a stand-up comic, a career at which her friends and family attest she would have succeeded. Chris had charisma, boundless energy and a big smile consisting of genuine joy.
Taking after her mother, Chris quietly helped the less fortunate, often handing out socks and warm clothes to people experiencing homelessness. She also worked with veterans. As a volunteer, Chris worked for John Kerry's 2004 presidential campaign. In 2019, Chris joined Jane Fonda and thousands of climate activists for Fire Drill Fridays on Capitol Hill, demanding action for a cleaner, greener and more just world.
PHOTO BY CHRISTINE SODERSTROM
CHRIS IN SOUTHEAST ALASKA
She loved animals—once hiking two days out of her way to save a lost, starving hunting dog she found in the mountains, Chris was especially devoted to her rescue animals including her cats, Violet and Lionel, and her sweet dog Wrigley.
Loving adventure, Chris spent a year after college traveling extensively. She taught English in China, backpacked in southeast Asia, and worked on an organic farm in New Zealand. Fortuitous things came Chris's way, as her lively personality drew people to her. She probably holds a record for getting into Grateful Dead concerts on a "miracle".
Chris made friends with anyone, from an usher at a Washington Capitals game to members of Congress. The Hammond Wood neighborhood in North Kensington, Maryland, where she lived for her last 13 years, will never be the same. Chris commanded the "Margarita Wagon" and hosted epic Halloween parties, where non-costumed attendees were required to wear fake mustaches or wigs from her impressive collection.
Chris leaves behind a legacy of laughter and love for the natural world that she worked so effectively to protect.
Chris was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Margaret and Thomas Dillon, Sr; her paternal grandparents, Sylvia and Carl Soderstrom; and her favorite uncle, Thomas (Doc) Dillon, Jr. She is survived by her parents, Margaret Theresa Soderstrom, PhD and Carl Armas Soderstrom, MD; her aunt and uncles, Elizabeth Dillon-Marable, PhD, Michael Marable, and William Black; her cousins Kelly Black Russell, Nicole Black Dennard, Pamela Dillon, second and third cousins, and a wide circle of loving friends who mourn and celebrate many good memories of her.
CHRIS IN WASHINGTON D.C.
Photo by the late Christine Margaret Soderstrom 1969 - 2024
M/V MIST COVE
May 10 – May 17
May 17 – May 24
May 24 – May 31
May 31 – June 7
June 7 - June 14
June 14 - June 21
June 21 – June 28
June 29 – July 4
July 5 – July 12
July 12 – July 19
July 19 – July 26
July 26 – Aug 2
Aug 2 – Aug 9
Aug 9 – Aug 16
Aug 16 – Aug 23
Aug 23 – Aug 30
Aug 30 – Sept 6
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Crew Break
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Sold Out
Juneau
Sitka
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Sold Out
Sitka
Juneau
Sold Out
Juneau
Sitka
To reserve your trip, contact: 877.647.8268 | kathy@theboatcompany.com
Cruising Schedules 2025
M/V LISERON
May 10 – May 17
May 17 – May 24
May 24 – May 31
May 31 – June 7
June 7 - June 14
June 14 - June 21
June 21 – June 28
June 29 – July 4
July 5 – July 12
July 12 – July 19
July 19 – July 26
July 26 – Aug 2
Aug 2 – Aug 9
Aug 9 – Aug 16
Aug 16 – Aug 23
Aug 23 – Aug 30
Aug 30 – Sept 6
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Sold Out
Sitka
Crew Break
Sitka
Juneau
Sold Out
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Sold Out
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Juneau
Sold Out
Juneau
Crew Break
Juneau
Sitka
Sold Out
Sitka
Juneau
Sitka
Sold Out
Sitka
Juneau
To reserve your trip, contact: 877.647.8268 | kathy@theboatcompany.com
“
We loved the “small boat” cruise— can’t stand large, crowded ships. We really enjoyed the adventure and nature exploration aspects of this cruise.
WILLIAM AND KAY M. | LISERON | JULY 2022
PHOTO BY JOHN LAND LE COQ
•
“The food was fabulous and aplenty! I greatly appreciated the availability of early morning coffee.”
KIM B. | MIST COVE | JULY/AUGUST 2022
FROM THE GALLEY Panko Fried Halibut
INGREDIENTS
YIELDS: 4 servings
PREP TIME: 0:10 minutes
1 pound halibut, cut into 2-inch squares
1/2 cup (8-ounces) panko breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 tsp dried dill
1 tsp of garlic powder salt and pepper oil for frying
PREPARATION + COOKING
Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Whisk eggs, milk, and flour in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, stir panko breadcrumbs and spices together.
Gently dip halibut into egg mixture, then press gently into breadcrumbs mix to coat both sides.
Place the breaded halibut, unstacked, onto a plate. Repeat with remaining halibut.
Carefully lower the halibut into the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and crisp outside, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Repeat with the remaining halibut until done.
Serve with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.
“ The activity choices were excellent; the whale watching was phenomenal.
”
ANONYMOUS | LISERON | JULY 2022
The Boat Company is headed to Napa Valley and the San Francisco Bay in 2025
For years, many of you have asked if we would ever choose to take the boats somewhere new. Well, your wait is up! Over recent months, we have been exploring opportunities to offer a crew in the San Francisco Bay area and up the Napa River to Napa Valley and California Wine Country. This offering will be available beginning in Fall 2025, aboard the M/V MIST COVE. We will be partnering with several vineyards to offer guests bespoke experiences, including Francis Ford Coppola’s Inglenook Vineyards, Merryvale, Sinegal, and Opus Vineyards.
While we don't have an itinerary confirmed as of yet, the below is an overview of what we are hoping to offer. True to The Boat Company's vision, this boutique excursion will be a mix of the very best that nature and luxury has to offer.
Sunday
Board M/V MIST COVE at noon and cruise from San Francisco to Sausalito Harbor. The afternoon can be spent exploring Sausalito or Muir Woods. Dinner aboard the boat and an evening cruise will take guests out past Golden Gate Bridge and then back into Sausalito during sunset.
Monday
Morning will be spent in Sausalito, including a tour of the Marine Mammal Rehabilitation Center. Lunch will be on board as we head up the bay past Alcatraz, and into the Napa River towards our destination portage. On Monday evening, guests will enjoy a short skiff ride up the river, docking in downtown Napa, allowing everyone the opportunity to explor the town. Dinner will be onboard.
Tuesday through Thursday
Guests will be picked up by a luxury sprinter van and experience behind-the-scenes tours at our partnering vineyards. Each day, breakfast will be on board, lunch will be at each respective vineyard, and will include a tastings. Dinner will once again be on board the boat upon our return.
Friday
Breakfast will be on board, followed by a final vineyard tour and lunch in Napa Valley. The boat the departs Napa Valley early afternoon on Friday, and will anchor up for evening between Napa and San Francisco. Dinner will be onboard.
Saturday
Guests will be honored with The Boat Company's traditional Eggs Benedict Goodbye Breakfast. The boat ties up by noon in San Francisco Bay and guests depart, making for easy access to the city, major airports, and much more.
“It was a trip of a lifetime.”
FRANCIS K. | LISERON | MAY 2023
Grab Your Gear!
Have you visited theboatcompany.org recently? If not, you are in for a surprise.
We recently launched a new website, new social media efforts (click on the links and follow us!)— and finally— a new online shop with all your favorite Boat Company apparel! In addition to purchasing jackets, hoodies, tees, and more that you see the crew wearing, you will also find hats, water bottles, and more. We plan to expand the shop with additional items as the cruising season progresses.
We look forward to you browsing and buying, with all proceeds going to The Boat Company Conservation efforts.
theboatcompany.org
The Boat Company is a 501c3 nonprofit organization—your donations support ongoing Conservation efforts in Alaska and beyond.
360.697.4242 or 877.647.8268
facebook.com/TheBoatCompany
instagram.com/TheBoatCompany
linkedin.com/company/the-boat-company
Visit our web site! theboatcompany.org