Ferry The Alaska Marine Highway
The Alaska Marine Highway System is the only way to reach many Southeast Alaska communities with no road connection at all - a real highway, just one that runs on water.
How the State Ferry Works
Unlike a cruise, the AMHS is public transportation - no entertainment or included dining, just a way to get between towns, with the option to bring your vehicle.
Get in TouchInside Passage Route
Sailing from Bellingham, WA, through Ketchikan, Wrangell, Petersburg, and Juneau, with connections on to Haines, Skagway, and Sitka.
Cross-Gulf Route
In summer (June through September), the M/V Kennicott runs a less-frequent route from Prince Rupert, Ketchikan, and Juneau to Whittier, stopping in Yakutat along the way.
Book Ahead
Peak season (June through August) books out one to three months in advance, especially for vehicle space and cabins - this isn't a walk-up ferry in summer.
Cabins vs. Recliner Seats
A multi-night passage like Bellingham to Juneau runs roughly $350-500 per person for a berth cabin, versus about $100-200 for a reclining chair - budget travelers can also pitch a tent on the solarium deck.