About Us

Meet Your Captain & Crew

Brian and Jeren Schmidt are the owners and operators of ABC Coastal Excursions, LLC. Lifelong Alaskans, they are ready to take you on a private custom cruise exploring the areas around Admiralty, Baranof, and Chichagof Islands.

Brian was born and raised in Sitka and grew up exploring the waters here with his family. Growing up living a subsistence lifestyle of fishing, hunting, and harvesting from the land and water makes him uniquely qualified to introduce guests to the Alaskan experience. Brian is Captain of the Silver Lady, holding a USCG 50 Ton Master Captain’s License.

Jeren is originally from the small town of Nikiski on the north end of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula – another area known for its wild salmon, and amazing fishing opportunities. Jeren also grew up living a subsistence lifestyle with her family – hunting moose, fishing for salmon and harvesting berries from the land. Jeren is Inupiaq and comes from many generations of lifelong Alaskans. With a background in the culinary arts, Jeren brings a discerning eye to the onboard dining experience; partnering with a professional chef to create menus that celebrate local flavors with a modern touch.

Together, Brian and Jeren are raising three outdoor-loving kids on Baranof Island, teaching them the traditions of a subsistence lifestyle and a deep respect for this place. At times, one of their children may be aboard the Silver Lady in a supervised training role as part of a hands-on, future crew apprenticeship. Our professional crew also includes our dedicated deckhand, Micah, to support fishing activities and guest safety, along with our onboard chef, Ben, who leads menu planning and prepares each meal with care. We look forward to welcoming you aboard and are honored to share this remarkable place with you, your family, and friends.