This past year, Alaska Coach Tours celebrated its 20th year of providing motorcoach tours in Alaska. In 2022, Na-Dena`, a joint venture between Doyon, Limited and Huna Totem Corporation, acquired a majority stake in Alaska Coach Tours.
Na-Dena` is dedicated to reimagining Alaska tourism by blending historic traditions and rich culture, with modern travel experiences that provide visitors with authentic connections to Alaska’s diverse culture.
“We were very proud that our company was Alaskan-owned and operated, with most of our owners born in Alaska and growing up in the local communities. Adding two well-respected Native Corporations to our ownership group was a perfect fit, as we are now an Alaskan Native-owned business. We are very proud of our history and recognize the importance of operating our company with a renewed focus on Alaska Native history and respecting the lands where we operate our tours.” said the President and minority owner of Alaska Coach Tours, Dennis McDonnell.
“Alaska Coach Tours is a key part of Doyon’s growing tourism portfolio, enhancing our vision for participation in the hospitality industry through transportation and tour experiences.” said Jordan Sanford, President, Doyon Tourism.
Longtime Alaskan Tom Tougas initially owned Alaska Coach Tours. In October 2004, a group of Alaskans embarked on starting an Alaskan-owned and operated motorcoach tour business in Southeast Alaska. In 2013, Alaska Coach Tours became employee owned.
Dennis McDonnell has led the business since the beginning. “Our first customer was Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, and we only had 6 months to get the business up and running before the 2005 season started. It was probably the most challenging 6 months of my life, but the initial team we assembled, many of whom are still employed, helped successfully launch the business, and it has now become one of the most respected tour companies in Alaska.”
Alaska Coach Tours is headquartered in Juneau and has satellite operations in Ketchikan, Sitka, Skagway, and, most recently, Klawock and Anchorage. It serves as a receptive motorcoach operator for the majority of cruise lines visiting Alaska, providing local tours for guests and transportation to other attractions booked with other vendors.
Alaska Coach Tours will begin its 21st season of operating tours when the first cruise ship arrives in Juneau on April 14th. For career opportunities with Alaska Coach Tours, visit their website at www.alaskacoachtours.com
