Local Spotlight: Stephanie Millane | Sunny Cove Kayaking

I'm originally from Dousman, WI, moved to AK in 1998 for summers, Seward 2006 summers, then 2014 full-time.

I have long been an advocate for introducing people and helping them understand the importance of wild places as a wilderness guide. In 2019, I developed Seward Tours LLC, and purchased Sunny Cove Kayaking, after 14 years in a leadership role with the company. I am currently in the process of developing Seward Van Tours, and Seward E-Bike Tours.

I am an Alumni of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses National Cohort 13. I am also a board member with the Seward Chamber of Commerce, and I am a committed proponent of local small businesses and the development of a stable year-round economy in Seward.

I enjoy helping to organize community events, such as the Seward Music & Arts Festival. I am also active in local clubs dedicated to getting people outdoors and active and advocating for pets and the local animal shelter. 

Sunny Cove Sea Kayaking: Started in 1996 previous owner John Page. I came on in 2006 as a guide/trip coordinator, became operations manager a few years after, purchased in Oct 2019. 

I'm inspired by other business owners, community leaders in Seward. 

What's the best thing to see or do in Alaska?
…everything? Seward is uniquely special!

To aspiring small business owners: 
Follow your gut, don’t be afraid of risk, reach out to business owners and mentors around you. A strong network is important. Don’t stop educating yourself, there are so many free resources online.