In line with the expansion plans that joint venture Na-Dena' LLC has for sustainable cultural tourism in Alaska, Alaska Independent Coach Tours has announced an additional $3.5 million investment to bring six new MCI coaches into its fleet. All six coaches are already in service through the company’s Seattle-based Pacific Alaska Tours fleet and will be making their way to their home base in Anchorage from the "Lower 48" prior to the 2023 visitor season.
“When Na-Dena' acquired the majority stake of Alaska Independent Coach Tours (which offers tours and transportation to major cruise lines visiting Alaska during the summer months), we knew it was with a vision for growth and commitment to sharing Alaska and its cultures responsibly. This most recent investment shows that we are not wasting any time making good on those promises,” said Dennis McDonnell, president of Alaska Independent Coach Tours.
These clean-diesel J4500 motorcoaches comply with low-emission standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency in 2021. The 2023 motorcoaches also offer the latest in safety technology, including automatic tire pressure monitoring and electronic stability control sensors that trigger automatic stopping when needed.
Alaska Coach Tours will focus on continuing to acquire the latest in low-emission technology and developing tour programs that will operate in the most efficient way to reduce their carbon footprint. Eventually, the goal is to be operating as many as 50 buses in Southcentral and the Interior.
Na-Dena’s long-term plans include offering transportation, guest services, tour development and lodging. It focuses on creating meaningful connections for visitors with Alaska native culture, preserving the state for future generations of residents and visitors, and providing well-paying jobs for Alaskans.
Na-Dena' owns 80 percent of Alaska Independent Coach Tours.
For more information, visit www.alaskacoachtours.com.
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