How to sail the Alaska Marine Highway

18.04.2024 - 15:17 / lonelyplanet.com

Traveling aboard an Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) – the ferry network that connects Alaska's coastal communities – offers the same views as the cruise ships, but without the fluff.

Passengers see glimpses of glaciers, wildlife, lush forests, but also meet the residents that rely upon ferries to get them to and from other places. To really understand what it’s like to live in rural Alaska and see amazing places without the huge price tag, this is the way to travel. 

Ferry travel requires advance planning and execution, as the Alaska Marine Highway System is a designated All-American Road, the first waterway to be named such, and its 3500-mile scenic byway is popular with independent travelers and their cars, RVs, bicycles and motorcycles.

Known fondly as the "blue canoes" by residents, the state-owned and operated ferries of the AMHS are integral to basic living and commerce for coastal communities of the state. Moving among three coastal regions, Southeast, Southcentral, and Southwest, the Alaska Marine Highway’s fleet of vessels transport people and goods over a 30-route system that also provides visitors with a unique experience that truly emulates the Alaska lifestyle.

First launched in 1948 as a small marine transport founded by two brothers who saw a need to help get residents and products between the small towns of Haines, Skagway, and Tee Harbor in Southeast Alaska, the ferry system of today didn’t become a state entity until 1963. Then, the newly launched MV Malaspina arrived in Ketchikan to much fanfare because, as one resident said, “We could finally go somewhere!”

Not ready for the ferry? Here are some other ways to travel around in Alaska

Alaska Marine Highway routes vary in distance and length, from a few hours to several days, depending upon the communities served. Looking for a snapshot of Alaska’s coastal regions with plenty of activities and stunning scenery? The following itineraries are a great trip to tack on to land-based travel, or as a full vacation in themselves.

The fishing industry is one of Alaska’s top economic engines, so traveling Prince William Sound during the summer months means a front-row seat to the vessels and people working nets and lines. This five-hour trip sails among the placid bays and craggy coves of the sound, with the stunning Chugach National Forest as a backdrop. Popular because of its sail-drive connection via the Richardson and Glenn Highways between Anchorage, Whittier, and Fairbanks, this a wonderful route for those looking for a round-trip journey. Watch for fishing boats, kayakers camping on the shoreline, and "bergy bits" from massive Columbia Glacier as you get closer to Valdez, then stay overnight in town before hitting the road north or