Seattle Excursions

Alaskan Ferry

Large cruise ships regularly travel to major ports in Alaska but a better, smaller option is the Alaskan Ferry. Departing from Bellingham Washington, these large ferries bounce against the major coastal towns of Canada, The Gulf of Alaska and stretching to the Alaskan Peninsula. The landscape is staggering, revealing hundreds of craggy forest-dense islands and coastlines. Eagles, killer whales, bears and other hardy wildlife are all part of the view. The months of operation are May to September, when the weather is bearable and sunshine illuminates most of the ‘night’ hours. Costs vary greatly on length of voyage and accommodation. Most ferries rent cabins but those in tune with Alaska’s pioneer spirit can pitch a tent on deck or just use a blanket.

E-mail: dot.ask.amhs@alaska.gov; Website: www.dot.state.ak.us/amhs/index.shtml; Telephone: (360) 676 0212 for Bellingham office