Certified Alaska Expert

Alaska Certified Expert - ATIA

My love for Alaska began in 2000 when I embarked on my first Alaska cruisetour—a journey that sparked a passion for the Last Frontier and has brought me back again and again for more than 25 years. What started as a single bucket-list vacation quickly became a lifelong passion for one of the most extraordinary destinations in the world.

Since that first journey, I've returned to Alaska multiple times, experiencing the destination in a variety of ways. I've sailed open-jaw itineraries combined with land-based cruisetours that included Denali National Park, as well as round-trip voyages from both Seattle and Vancouver. Along the way, I've witnessed massive glaciers calving into the sea, encountered incredible wildlife, and discovered the unique character of Alaska's coastal communities.

Over the years, Alaska has become a family tradition. My wife and I first explored the Last Frontier on our own. Later, our son joined us on an Alaska adventure, and most recently we had the joy of sharing the experience with our son, daughter-in-law, and two grandsons. Watching a new generation experience Alaska's awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife reinforced why this destination remains one of my favorites to recommend.

As a Certified Alaska Expert, I combine professional training with firsthand experience to help clients navigate the many choices available when planning an Alaska vacation. Whether you're considering a cruise, cruisetour, luxury expedition, or independent land journey, I can help match the right experience to your interests and travel style.

One of the greatest benefits of my years selling and traveling Alaska is the relationships I've built with trusted local tour providers throughout the region. I've confidently recommended these partners to many of my clients, and during our most recent family trip we finally experienced one of those excursions ourselves. What followed was one of the most memorable wildlife encounters I've ever witnessed: eighteen humpback whales bubble-feeding together, repeatedly breaching just feet from our boat. It was a powerful reminder that Alaska offers moments that simply can't be replicated anywhere else.

My most recent Alaska voyage aboard Silversea's Silver Moon provided another unique perspective on the destination. Sailing from Tokyo to Alaska, I visited ports not typically included on Inside Passage itineraries, including Kodiak Island, Valdez, and Whittier. These experiences expanded my understanding of Alaska beyond the traditional cruise routes and allow me to provide clients with insights that go far beyond the brochure.

Whether you're planning your first Alaska adventure or returning to explore more of the Last Frontier, I'll help you design a vacation that captures the breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable experiences that have kept me coming back for more than two decades.