See More of Alaska on the Alaska Marine Highway

Brought to you by the Alaska Marine Highway System

If you’ve ever dreamed of a trip to Alaska, take an unforgettable trip aboard an Alaska State Ferry. It’s an ideal way to travel as a walk-on passenger or with a vehicle and allows you the flexibility to create your own schedule, explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, and experience Alaska at your own pace.

The Alaska Marine Highway is a state-owned ferry system that operates a fleet of vessels along a scenic 3,500-mile route from Washington State to the Aleutian Islands. It provides economical, year-round transportation to 35 port communities and is a unique option for travelers. Originally designed to provide transportation to roadless areas of Alaska, the Marine Highway offers locals and visitors alike the ability to travel together through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. In fact, the Marine Highway encompasses a route so spectacular it has been designated an All-American Road and one of America’s National Scenic Byways.

The Alaska ferry is an ideal way to travel for those who want to create their own schedule, explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, and see Alaska in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. With the Alaska Marine Highway, you can visit dozens of unique communities and areas of Alaska not accessible via the road system. Riders can book multiple legs of travel on different ferries to allow for more time in each community and discover Alaska at their own pace.

From the deck of the ships, riders can enjoy the view of vivid blue glaciers, snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes, majestic fjords, and lush green forests. Passengers will also find ample opportunities to view wildlife such as porpoise, bald eagles, sea otters, whales, and sometimes even bears along the coastline.

Traveling with your vehicle

The Alaska Marine Highway can accommodate a variety of vehicles: from bicycles and motorcycles to passenger vehicles and RV’s. Details on vehicle categories and restrictions are outlined on the Alaska Marine Highway System website. Vehicles over 30 feet in length cannot be booked online but reservations can be made by contacting the reservations call center Monday through Friday, 7:30am – 4:00pm AKST toll-free at 1-800-642-0066.

Cabins & Facilities

Cabins onboard the ferries provide basic amenities and vary in price according to size and location. Cabins are sold per trip, not per day or per person. Cabins are equipped with single or double bunk bed style berths. Most cabins include private bathroom facilities. For those that do not have private bathrooms, public restroom and shower facilities are available.

Camping Onboard

For passengers who opt to travel without a cabin, the recliner lounges also serve as sleeping areas with space to roll out a sleeping bag. Covered solariums located on the upper decks of each vessel are also popular sleeping areas. Travelers are also allowed to set up small tents on the upper decks.

Onboard Dining

All vessels, with the exception of the MV Lituya, offer food and beverage service. Hot and cold items, which include Alaska seafood, salads, sandwiches, and beverage service, are served throughout the day in self-service dining areas. Passengers may also bring aboard their own coolers or picnic items. Refrigeration is not available, but mainline vessels do provide coin operated ice machines and all vessels provide access to microwaves.

The Alaska Marine Highway provides a unique and unforgettable way to experience Alaska. From hiking and glacier viewing to kayaking and fishing, the options for adventure are limited only by your imagination. Whether you walk on, drive a car or ride a bike, traveling on an Alaska ferry is an experience you don't want to miss.

Visit the Alaska Marine Highway System website.

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