In honor of National Travel and Tourism Week [May 4-10], we’re celebrating the community partners making waves in sustainable, resilient tourism across the Oregon Coast.
A thriving tourism economy relies on businesses who are deeply rooted, and community-minded. That’s why it means so much when our longtime industry partners get recognized for doing just that—building a thriving, resilient business while investing deeply in their community and ecosystem.
This spring, we’re proud to share that Tadd Mick, Noelie Achen, and Chris Schaffner of Tradewinds Charters in Depoe Bay have been honored with a statewide Small Business Person of the Year award from the U.S. Small Business Administration, and will represent Oregon during National Small Business Week this May in Washington, D.C.
A beloved institution in Depoe Bay since 1938, Tradewinds Charters offers whale watching and fishing excursions out of the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast.” But it’s what happens beyond the boats that really sets this business apart.
Noelie Achen, who started with Tradewinds as a teenager selling whale watching tickets, has spent more than 20 years growing with the business, eventually becoming Vice President and a co-owner. “I’ve worked in just about every position here,” she shared. “Now I get to help lead a business that’s been part of people’s memories for generations.”
Tadd Mick joined the fleet in 2013 and purchased the business in 2021. Under their leadership, Tradewinds has grown by over 50%—but the numbers only tell part of the story.
“Our main goal is simple,” Tadd said. “Safety is number one. Having fun is number two. And seeing the smiles on people’s faces—that’s everything.”
Those smiles often return year after year. Some guests fondly remember boarding the Kingfisher as kids and now bring their own children or grandchildren aboard. And this year, they’re bringing back the Kingfisher name on a brand-new vessel—a nod to the original flagship that helped launch the charter industry on the coast.
Our main goal is simple. Safety is number one. Having fun is number two. And seeing the smiles on people’s faces—that’s everything.
Tadd Mick
The magic of Depoe Bay is in its geography as much as its legacy. “We’re lucky to have whales, reefs, and fish just a half-mile offshore, and a small, navigable harbor that gives people quick access to the ocean,” Noelie noted. That proximity also makes the area a consistent destination—even in economic downturns.
But beyond offering exceptional tours, Tradewinds is dedicated to giving back– and that’s what made them a stand-out choice for this prestigious award.
They’re deeply involved with ORKA (Oregon Kelp Alliance), recognizing the essential role kelp plays in ocean health–and ultimately, the longevity of the charter industry itself. “Ten years ago, we lost a lot of our kelp forests when sea star populations crashed. They’re just starting to bounce back,” Noelie explained. “We’re already seeing more kelp this season—and that brings the whales in closer.”
They also support Poles for Kids, a program that provides fishing poles to children in need, supported by a voluntary $1 donation when customers book tours. “Most people say yes. They want to give back, too,” she said.
When asked about the award, Noelie and Tadd were quick to credit their community. “We’re honored. And we want to thank Greg Price from Oregon Coast Community College for nominating us. The SBDC class we took there helped us better understand the online business world that is always changing. It made a huge difference.”
This month, Tadd and Noelie will travel to Washington, D.C. to represent Oregon as part of the national award ceremony. Whatever the outcome, this story is a win for the Oregon Coast, and a powerful example of what happens when tourism, sustainability, and community care move in the same direction. At OCVA, we’re proud to convene an industry filled with people who are dedicated to protecting the coast, honoring its history, and creating lasting experiences for the generations who return, again and again.