Smooth sailing: Valdez Technician Mike Buck kayaks to work

Those who work at the Valdez Marine Terminal drive 20 minutes around the Port of Valdez to get there.

Technician Mike Buck had a better idea: Instead of driving around, why not cut straight across?

That is precisely what Buck has done for weeks now, kayaking to and from the shores of town to the beach just below the security gate of the Terminal. This uncommon commute has saved him gas money and also allowed Buck to start and end his shift in a mentally peaceful and physically satisfying way.

“When the idea first occurred to me, I thought, ‘Why not? Other people are biking to work,’” Buck said. “It’s a nice relaxing paddle – most of the time.”

Strong winds can kick up rocky waves. This trip isn’t for the novice. Buck, an easygoing and athletic guy, first started kayaking back in 1979, and started a rafting company called Keystone Adventures in 1982. His company still shuttles clients across the rapids of rivers in the Valdez and Keystone Canyon areas.

For his 35-minute trips to and from the Terminal, Buck commandeers a 17-foot, shiny red kayak. He takes safety precautions too, wearing a dry suit and carrying a VHF radio in a dry bag.

He parks his red Dodge truck at a park located on the road to SERVS headquarters, and generally puts his kayak into the water on one of the gradual beaches there. While he paddles, he often listens to his iPod, sometimes singing along.

“I listen to a lot of John Hyatt, a little David Gray and John Pryne,” Buck said. “It’s just so peaceful out there, especially during the morning. The birds fly over, and look at you like, ‘What are you doing?’ It’s just a great way to start the day, and a great way to get the blood flowing.”

Before ever attempting this trek, Buck checked with security and got approval. On the terminal side, Buck comes to shore, hoists his kayak across his shoulders, and hauls it to the contractor lot. After he finishes his shift, it’s time to paddle home again.

“I’m taking my time a little more coming back,” Buck said.

An interesting side note: Buck has lived in Valdez since 1978. Before joining Alyeska a year ago, he taught shop at the high school. Now he works alongside many former students.

“In fact,” Buck said, “now some of them are my instructors.”  

Click here to learn more about why Mike decided to kayak across the Port of Valdez.