As several major cruise lines announce their absence from Alaska this year, travelers seeking adventure can consider the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system. Departing regularly from Bellingham, Washington, these ferries offer a scenic route to the 49th state.
Ferry Schedules and Routes
Ferries navigating north via the Inside Passage to Skagway are tentatively scheduled to recommence at the beginning of July, depending on inter-state travel regulations.
Historically, Alaska attracts over 1.3 million cruise passengers from May to September. However, due to the pandemic, three major cruise companies—Princess, Holland America, and Carnival—have canceled all operations in Alaska. Fortunately, state-managed ferries plan to operate with a more limited schedule, offering alternatives for travelers if lockdown measures relax.
The Alaska Marine Highway is committed to implementing enhanced cleaning and social distancing protocols on its vessels in response to Covid-19. As early as mid-May, they will begin taking reservations for July sailings. For updates, check the official website.
While not as lavish as luxury cruise ships, these ferries are often referred to as the “poor-person’s cruise liners” or “the world’s most spectacular public transportation network.” They provide comfortable travel through breathtaking landscapes—think tumbling glaciers, misty rainforests, and rugged mountains. Passengers can expect opportunities to spot whales, bald eagles, and bears along the way. The ferries accommodate vehicles and feature sleeping cabins, some of which are wheelchair accessible.
Travel Safety and Information
Ferry routes vary yearly, stretching from Bellingham in the lower 48 states to the Aleutian archipelago. Notable stops include Ketchikan, Wrangell, Petersburg, Sitka, Juneau, Haines, and Skagway. A journey from Bellingham to Juneau typically lasts between 2½ to 4 days, depending on the selected route.
Alaska has managed the Covid-19 crisis relatively well, recording just ten deaths and 39 active cases as of May 12, one of the lowest rates in the nation. Various state services, including hotels and transportation networks, are preparing for a re-opening in early July. For reliable travel information, Alaska Tour and Travel serves as a helpful resource. They also maintain a dedicated webpage detailing Alaska’s ‘new normal,’ which follows CDC guidelines.
To ensure safety and minimize disease spread, it is vital to consult the regularly updated CDC website before embarking on your Alaska adventure, particularly the sections relevant to US travel.
