Travel to Alaska: By Sea
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Alaska has more coastline than the rest of the United States combined. Seeing it
– and Alaska’s abundant marine life and tidewater glaciers – is one of the most
popular travel options in the state. There are two ways to reach Alaska by sea:
cruise ship or ferry.
Cruising is the single most popular way to see Alaska, and for good reason.
Cruise companies have operated in Alaska since the early 20th century, and have
perfected the art of the Alaska cruise. Cruise visitors travel in all-inclusive
comfort on ships of all sizes and on itineraries of varying length, with
abundant tour options in established ports of call.
Cruises fall into two basic categories: large ship and small ship cruises.
Itineraries to Alaska range from seven days to several weeks, depending on
route. Small ships tend to offer more individualized service and custom or
specialty itineraries (for instance, cruises focused on photography, whale
watching or archaeology). Large ships offer lavish entertainment, shopping and
extensive tour networks in major ports to create a seamless travel experience.
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Photo By: Frank Flavin
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Cruise ships dock right in downtown Juneau, creating a dramatically lit cityscape at night
The Inside Passage is the most popular cruise route in Alaska. The route snakes
up Alaska’s southeastern coast, guarded from rough seas by hundreds of islands.
This area is served by large and small ships alike. The central Alaska coast
and the Aleutian Islands are primarily the province of small-ship cruise
companies. These more remote regions are known for cultural depth and wildlife
– especially birds.
Independent travelers may prefer to see the same scenery by Alaska Marine
Highway, the state’s ferry system. You can reach Alaska by ferry by embarking
in Bellingham, Washington or in Prince Rupert, British Columbia. Ferries offer
cabins for private, overnight accommodations or public areas for laying out a
sleeping bag. Food in dining rooms and cafeterias, onboard naturalists, movies,
small gift shops and other entertainment is also available onboard most
ferries. Ferries offer the flexibility to stop and explore along the way, and
to bring your personal vehicle or RV along for side trips to inland
destinations.
The Alaska Marine Highway travels from the Inside Passage across the Gulf of
Alaska and all the way out to the Aleutian Islands. Ferries stop in dozens of
tiny ports along the way. Most of these towns offer visitor services, and many
are off the beaten track, providing a closer look at life in Alaska.
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