About Us
We are thrilled to be taking over the helm of Sound Eco Adventures from Gerry Sanger and appreciate the vision he developed as evidenced in his amazing photographs. Moving our tours to Valdez allows us to show guests an exploration of the Sound through new as well as traditional lenses: we offer trips with opportunities for both history and photography enthusiasts. Sound Eco Adventures uses one of the most environmentally friendly outboard engines on our vessel, Sound Access. Our trips are limited to 6 people in order to be mindful of the impact we have on our Alaskan Environment. We want to share our passion for Alaska by giving you a chance to experience its untamed beauty and wildlife, as well as its past and modern history. We are fully licensed and trained to offer you a safe trip with a knowledgeable, experienced local guide.
Captain/Guide Laura Johnston
Laura graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in
philosophy. She later pursued her passion for art and photography at Columbia College
in Chicago. Anxious to leave the city, she moved to Alaska. Laura began guiding sea
kayaking Prince William Sound, exploring the coastline in both the eastern and western
parts of the Sound for 10 years. She settled in Valdez because of the close proximity to
the mountains and sea. Acquiring her Captain's License was a natural progression for a
career running boats and kayaking. In addition, she works at the Valdez Museum and
Historical Archive to satisfy her artistic side and love of local history. Laura strives to
share her knowledge and great love of the Alaskan wilderness with her clients.
Captain/Owner Tia Anderson
Tia has lived and worked in Prince William Sound for over twenty-five years. Passionate
about the beauty and the powerful forces of nature that have shaped this environment,
she looks forward to sharing the magic of this unique place with guests. Licensed as a
Master by the US Coast Guard,Tia is qualified to captain vessels up to two-hundred tons.
Her vast seafaring experience runs the gamut, from twenty-one years as a fisherman to
working on the Alaska Ferries. Most recently, she spent eight years as a Journeyman
Diesel Mechanic, working in oil spill prevention and training fishermen in rapid response
to environmental emergencies, ensuring the disaster that struck Prince William
Sound in 1989 will never happen again.