Summer’s here. What are you waiting for? It’s time to get on board Alaska’s Marine Highway. You know–the Ferry. The Blue Canoe. Many of us here in Alaska know the ferry sails year-round in Southeast Alaska: it’s how things get done in our island communities. But our ferry system also does year-round duties in Southcentral Alaska between Kodiak, Homer, Whittier, Valdez and Cordova. Above, my friend Marion Owen snapped this photo of the Mighty m/v Tustumena sailing out of Kodiak.
With summer’s longer days comes a beefed-up ferry schedule and some specials. Here’s what we’re watching:
a. The Aleutian Run. If you can believe it, the m/v Tustumena already has sailed out to Dutch Harbor and back to Kodiak. I keep talking about this adventure, with calls in Cold Bay, Akutan, False Pass, Chignik and some other hot spots. That’s because I WANT TO SAIL THIS ROUTE! Get out to Dutch Harbor. Stay a couple of days at the Grand Aleutian Hotel (use your TourSaver book for a free night). Check out the area. Then fly back on PenAir to Anchorage.
b. Driver goes free. One of the great things about the ferry is that you can roll your car/RV on board (reservations required). When you’re booking a round trip on the ferry with your car, the driver goes free. LEARN MORE.
c. Here in Southcentral, we’re happy the Fast Ferry Chenega is back, plying the waters between Whittier, Cordova and Valdez. We’ve sailed on this fine vessel. And it’s a great way to “connect the dots” when you’re driving over to Valdez or McCarthy from Anchorage. Just sail across Prince William Sound instead of driving all the way back! Watch the video.
d. See Alaska Pass. This is a great way to save 25 percent (off passenger fares) when you’re headed to or from Prince Rupert, BC. Stop as many times as you wish along the way. LEARN MORE.
Honestly, though, any trip on the ferry is a great one. Whether it’s threading the needle through the Wrangell Narrows in Southeast Alaska, or watching whales between Homer and Kodiak, Alaska’s Marine Highway is a great way to see Alaska. And don’t be scared off if you cannot secure a cabin. Real Alaskans sleep on the solarium deck. Grab your sleeping back and throw it on one of the chaise lounges. I am not making this up. See you on board!
Check the website, or call (800)642-0066 for reservations.
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