Alaska Marine Highway Ferry System
The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) offers a unique way to experience Alaska’s coastal communities and stunning maritime landscapes. Operating as both an essential transportation network for locals and an unforgettable adventure for visitors, the “blue canoes” of Alaska provide access to communities often unreachable by road.
Understanding the Alaska Marine Highway
The System at a Glance
The AMHS operates year-round, serving more than 30 communities across 3,500 miles of coastline. Unlike cruise ships, these working ferries primarily provide vital transportation but still offer magnificent scenery and authentic Alaska experiences.
Fleet and Vessels
The AMHS fleet includes:
- Mainline Ferries: Larger vessels for longer routes
- Day Boats: Smaller vessels for shorter inter-community connections
- Special Route Vessels: Ships designed for specific challenging routes
Most ferries accommodate vehicles, passengers, and offer various amenities including observation lounges, cafeterias, and sometimes private cabins.
Major Routes and Regions
Inside Passage (Southeast Alaska)
The most popular route connects Bellingham, Washington to Southeast Alaska communities including Ketchikan, Wrangell, Petersburg, Juneau, Haines, and Skagway. This stunning voyage through fjords and island passages showcases the temperate rainforest ecosystem and abundant marine wildlife.
Cross-Gulf Route
This less frequent service crosses the Gulf of Alaska between Southeast Alaska (typically Juneau) and Southcentral Alaska (Whittier), offering a vital connection between these regions. The crossing provides opportunities to see open ocean wildlife including whales and seabirds.
Southwest System
Serving communities from Homer to Kodiak, the Alaska Peninsula, and the Aleutian Islands. This system provides vital links to remote communities and offers incredible views of the volcanic Aleutian Range.
Prince William Sound Routes
Day ferries connect the communities of Valdez, Cordova, and Whittier, offering spectacular glacier and mountain views throughout Prince William Sound.
Trip Planning and Reservations
Booking Tips
- Reserve 6-9 months in advance for summer travel with vehicles
- Passenger-only travel has more availability
- Call the reservation line for complex multi-stop itineraries
- Be aware of schedule changes that may occur throughout the year
Fare Structure
- Fares depend on route distance, passenger age, and vehicle dimensions
- Additional charges apply for cabins and premium accommodations
- Alaska residents receive discounted fares
- “See Alaska Pass” offers cost savings for visitors making multiple stops
Onboard Experience
Accommodation Options
- Private Cabins: Available on mainline vessels for overnight journeys
- Recliner Lounges: Dedicated quiet areas with reclining chairs
- Solarium: Covered outdoor deck with heat lamps and lounge chairs
- Tent Camping: Permitted on the upper deck of most vessels
Amenities and Services
- Dining: Cafeterias serving basic meals (no alcohol service on most vessels)
- Observation Lounges: Indoor areas with panoramic views
- Movie Lounges: Entertainment spaces on longer routes
- Shower Facilities: Available for all passengers on overnight routes
Vehicle Transport
The AMHS is the only way to transport your personal vehicle to many Alaska communities:
- Garage Deck: Enclosed car deck on larger vessels
- RV Facilities: Special rates and spaces for recreational vehicles
- Loading/Unloading: Drive-on, drive-off service at all ports
Making the Most of Your Ferry Journey
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Commonly seen wildlife includes:
- Humpback whales and orcas
- Dall’s porpoises (often riding the bow wave)
- Sea lions and harbor seals
- Bald eagles and seabirds
- Occasional bears on shorelines
Cultural Connections
Unlike cruise ships, ferries primarily serve local residents, offering visitors:
- Authentic interactions with Alaskans
- Glimpses of everyday life in remote communities
- Cultural presentations on some routes
- Public announcements of points of interest
Suggested Ferry Itineraries
- Southeast Sampler: Bellingham to Juneau with stops in Ketchikan and Sitka (5-7 days)
- Complete Inside Passage: Bellingham to Skagway with multiple community stops (7-10 days)
- Alaska Circuit: Drive to Alaska via the Alaska Highway, return via ferry (10-14 days)
- Prince William Sound Explorer: Day trips connecting Whittier, Valdez, and Cordova
Packing Essentials
- Sleeping bag and pad if not booking a cabin
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Rain gear and warm layers
- Cooler for supplemental food
- Entertainment for longer journeys
Seasonal Considerations
- Summer: Most frequent sailings and fullest service
- Fall: Less crowded with beautiful foliage
- Winter: Reduced schedules but lowest fares
- Spring: Increasing service with wildlife migration activity
Inter-Island Ferry Authority
This separate ferry system operates between Prince of Wales Island and Ketchikan, complementing the AMHS network with daily service.
Combining Ferry Travel with Other Transportation
The ferry system integrates well with other transportation modes:
- Drive on in Washington and drive off in Alaska
- Connect to the Alaska Railroad in Whittier
- Fly into one community and ferry out from another
- Bring a bicycle aboard for flexible exploration in port towns
Plan Your Alaska Ferry Journey with Ahnapee Travel
For expert advice on incorporating the Alaska Marine Highway into your itinerary, contact Ahnapee Travel at andrew@ahnapeetravel.com.