About Sitka Kayak Center
Our Story
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Story
We established Sitka Kayak Center to address the needs of Southeast Alaska paddlers for kayak instruction and outfitting that is specific to our unique sea environment. Our founder, Mike Graney, brings over 30 years of experience in kayak instruction and guiding locally and internationally. Our approach to kayak instruction is based on the ISKGA (International Sea Kayak Guide Alliance) standards and curriculum.
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Mission
Sitka Kayak Center exists to provide courses, instruction, and experiences that increase participants' enjoyment, knowledge, and skills on and off the water. SKC is allied with the American Canoe Association, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, the National Forest Service, and local non-profits to ensure our safety and environmental considerations are the "gold standard."
Our Team
Michael Graney
Michael Graney
Our team members are all vetted instructors and guides with broad experience bases and varied interests. We adapt to individual learning styles and tailor experiences to clients’ needs and preferences..
Michael Graney
Michael Graney
Michael Graney
Mike Graney, founder, was first certified by the ACA as a white-water instructor in 1991. In 2002, he earned his Open Water Instructor Certificate. 2004 found him working in New Zealand, where he earned his level 4/5 Guide Certificate. Mike has paddled extensively in South and Central America, New Zealand, and the east coast of Australia. He has been guiding and instructing in Sitka since 2018.
He is currently earning his certification with the International Sea Kayak Guide Alliance.
Ways to Help
Sitka Trail Works
Sitka Maritime Heritage Society
Sitka Maritime Heritage Society
Sitka Trail Works works hard to maintain and develop trails on land and water for all to use. They manage a large force of volunteers who get out to all our favorite trails and keep them usable.
Sitka Maritime Heritage Society
Sitka Maritime Heritage Society
Sitka Maritime Heritage Society
SMHS is in the process of restoring the Japonski Island Marine Ways, a historic site in Sitka with a robust history. They also support paddle sports and marine education throughh programs for all ages.