The Alaska Marine Highway is a state-run ferry system that connects coastal towns and islands across Alaska

The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) is operated by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. It runs 11 mainline routes and several smaller routes that serve about 35 communities, most of which have no road connection to the rest of Alaska. The system carries both passengers and vehicles — cars, trucks, RVs, and motorcycles — across the Inside Passage, the Gulf Coast, and the Aleutian Chain.

Unlike most U.S. ferries, the Alaska Marine Highway is a transportation backbone for residents, not a tourist service. People use it to reach their homes, jobs, schools, and medical appointments. You can book a cabin for a multi-day voyage, drive your car onto the vessel, or walk on as a foot passenger. Fares and schedules vary by route and season.

Key Takeaways

  • The Alaska Marine Highway connects 35 coastal communities with no road access, carrying passengers and vehicles on 11 mainline routes.
  • Passenger fares depend on the specific route and season, and vehicle fares are charged separately based on vehicle length.
  • Cabins are available on longer routes but must be reserved in advance, and prices vary by cabin type and sailing date.
  • The system operates year-round but runs fewer sailings in winter, and schedules change seasonally.
  • You can book tickets and check schedules through the official AMHS website or by phone.

How to book a ticket and what information you need

Reservations are made through the Alaska Marine Highway website (dot.alaska.gov/amhs) or by calling 1-800-642-0066. You will need to know your departure point, destination, and preferred travel date. The system shows available sailings and prices for that route when ready.

For passengers traveling without a vehicle, you select your sailing and pay the passenger fare. If you are bringing a vehicle, you enter the vehicle's length (measured bumper to bumper, including any cargo carrier or bike rack), and the system calculates the vehicle fare separately. Foot passengers can also reserve a cabin if one is available on that route.

Payment is accepted online, by phone, or at ticket windows in larger ports. Reservations can be changed or cancelled according to the refund policy posted at the time of booking — policies vary by route and season.

Passenger fares and vehicle charges by route

Fares are not fixed across the system. Each route has its own pricing structure, and fares change seasonally. A short hop between nearby towns costs far less than a multi-day voyage. The system publishes fare schedules for each route on its website, updated annually.

Vehicle fares are based on length, not weight. A standard car is typically charged at one rate, while an RV or truck longer than a certain threshold pays a higher rate. Some routes charge by the foot; others use vehicle-length brackets. The website calculator shows the exact charge for your vehicle on your chosen route.

Discounts are available for Alaska residents, seniors, military personnel, and children under 12. The discount amount varies by route. You will need to provide proof of residency or status at booking or at the ticket window.

Cabin options and what to expect on longer voyages

Cabins are available on routes where the sailing takes more than a few hours. Cabin types range from small inside cabins with bunk beds and a private bathroom to larger outside cabins with windows. Some routes offer solarium seating (an open-air covered area) at a lower cost than a cabin.

Cabins must be reserved when you book your ticket. Availability is limited, especially during summer months and on popular routes like the Inside Passage run. Cabin prices are in addition to your passenger fare and vary by cabin type, route, and sailing date.

Onboard amenities vary by vessel. Larger ships have dining rooms, lounges, and observation decks. Smaller ferries may have limited food service or none at all. The AMHS website lists what is available on each specific vessel and route.

Schedules, seasonal changes, and how to plan around them

The Alaska Marine Highway publishes schedules for the entire year, but sailings are not daily on all routes. Some routes run multiple times per week; others run once or twice per week. Winter schedules (roughly October through March) have fewer sailings than summer schedules.

The schedule is posted on the website and updated if weather or maintenance causes changes. During winter, storms can cause cancellations or delays. If your sailing is cancelled, the system will rebook you on the next available sailing or issue a refund.

Peak travel season is June through August. If you are planning a summer trip, book well in advance — popular routes and cabin space fill up months ahead. Winter travel is less crowded but sailings are less frequent and weather delays are more common.

What happens at the terminal and what to bring

Arrive at the terminal at least one hour before departure for foot passengers, and two hours before for vehicles. You will check in at the ticket window, receive your boarding pass, and proceed to the boarding area. Vehicle drivers will be directed to drive onto the car deck in the order called.

Bring a valid photo ID. If you are claiming a resident or military discount, bring proof of that status. Pets are allowed in kennels on most routes; check the specific route rules on the website. Bicycles and motorcycles are permitted and charged separately.

The system allows two pieces of luggage per passenger at no extra charge. Excess baggage can be stored in the hold for a fee. If you are traveling with a vehicle, you can leave items in your car during the voyage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my car on the ferry if I am just a foot passenger?

No. Vehicle space is limited and reserved for passengers who are driving. If you do not have a vehicle, you travel as a foot passenger. You cannot reserve vehicle space without traveling with the vehicle yourself.

What if my sailing is cancelled due to weather?

The Alaska Marine Highway will rebook you on the next available sailing at no additional cost, or issue a full refund if no alternative sailing works for you. Check the website or call the booking line for updates if weather is forecast.

Are there discounts for round-trip bookings?

The system does not offer round-trip discounts. Each leg is priced separately. However, resident, senior, military, and youth discounts explore to each sailing you book.

Can I bring my RV and stay in it during the voyage?

No. You cannot remain in your vehicle during the crossing. You must leave your RV on the car deck and go to the passenger areas. If you need sleeping space, you must reserve a cabin.

How far in advance should I book for summer travel?

Popular routes and cabin space fill up two to three months ahead during peak season. Booking in April or May for June or July travel is common. Less popular routes and winter sailings have more availability closer to the travel date.