Alaska Travel Info

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:

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

Fare Structure

Onboard Experience

Accommodation Options

Amenities and Services

Vehicle Transport

The AMHS is the only way to transport your personal vehicle to many Alaska communities:

Making the Most of Your Ferry Journey

Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Commonly seen wildlife includes:

Cultural Connections

Unlike cruise ships, ferries primarily serve local residents, offering visitors:

Suggested Ferry Itineraries

Practical Information

Packing Essentials

Seasonal Considerations

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:

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.