Taking the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry to Bellingham

Why the ferry matters for Southeast Alaska

Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Petersburg, Wrangell and most of Southeast Alaska have no road connection to the rest of North America. To leave by surface, your options are freight barges for your belongings and the Alaska Marine Highway System for you, your vehicle and your pets. AMHS has long offered southbound service to Bellingham, Washington, which puts you on Interstate 5 the moment you drive off.

Some travelers instead take the ferry to a road-connected port such as Haines or Skagway and drive the Alaska Highway from there. See Driving the ALCAN.

Vehicles and trailers

Vehicle fares are based on length, so a truck with a trailer costs much more than a car. Have vehicle measurements ready when you book. Fuel limits and propane rules apply to vehicles on board. A packed vehicle is generally allowed, but you usually won't have access to the car deck during the voyage, so keep essentials with you.

Pets on the ferry

Pets generally travel in your vehicle or in a kennel on the car deck, with scheduled times when you can visit them. On longer sailings that can mean long stretches between visits. Talk with your veterinarian about comfort, and bring water and familiar bedding. See Moving pets from Alaska.

Cabins, deck space and the trip itself

Longer sailings offer cabins for overnight travel. They sell out in summer, so book early. Many travelers sleep in recliner lounges or on deck. Bring layers, snacks and entertainment. It's a long trip, but the Inside Passage is a remarkable way to say goodbye to Alaska.

Reservations and timing

• Book as soon as you know your dates, especially for vehicles in summer.
• Coordinate the sailing with when your household freight leaves.
• Have a backup plan. Vessel maintenance and weather can change schedules.
• Check in early with all documents and vehicle information.

Shipping the rest of the household

Most people use the ferry for themselves, a vehicle and essentials, and send the rest by barge on Alaska Marine Lines or with a mover. Read how moving from Alaska works to compare options.