If you’re dreaming of an Alaska trip that feels personal, unrushed, and full of raw, photogenic moments—you might want to try traveling by ferry instead. As someone who calls Southeast Alaska home, I’ve taken these routes a few times and the experience was way better than I had imagined. Not only were the views spectacular, but the ship itself was quite enjoyable.
This post is your go-to planning guide: how to book, what it costs, where to stop, what to pack, and where to point your camera.
Why Choose the Alaska Ferry (Alaska Marine Highway)?
Traveling by ferry in Southeast Alaska isn’t just a means of getting from Point A to Point B—it’s a part of the experience. Here’s why:
Authentic and Local: Unlike cruises, the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) is used by locals for everything from groceries to high school basketball tournaments. You’ll share space with Alaskans, not just tourists.
Flexible and Affordable: Plan your own route, stop when you want, and build an itinerary that suits your pace and interests. Walk-on fares are especially affordable.
Unfiltered Views: Spend hours on the deck watching mist rise from the forested coastlines, whales breach, and seabirds dive. Bring your camera.
Access to Small Communities: Many Southeast towns are only accessible by boat or plane. The ferry lets you explore places like Wrangell or Petersburg that are off most tourist itineraries.
Top Ferry Routes for First-Time Travelers
1. Juneau → Haines or Skagway
Duration: 4–6 hours
Scenery: Cruise the Lynn Canal, North America’s deepest fjord. Towering mountains flank both sides, with waterfalls tumbling straight into the sea.
When to Go: May to early September
Pro Tips:
Stand outside on the forward deck for uninterrupted views.
Haines is more laid-back and less crowded than Skagway.
Great for renting a car and continuing up the Alaska Highway.
2. Juneau → Petersburg
Duration: 8–10 hours (day and overnight options)
Scenery: Navigate the Wrangell Narrows, a winding passage with nearly 60 navigational markers—perfect for long-exposure shots.
Highlights: LeConte Glacier access, local fishing docks, and charming Scandinavian architecture.
Pro Tips:
Book an overnight cabin—ferries often travel this route late.
Eat at Coastal Cold Storage or Salty Pantry while in Petersburg.
Visit during July for the Little Norway Festival or peak wildflower season.
3. Petersburg → Wrangell → Ketchikan
Duration: 1–2 days with stops
Scenery: Experience the Inside Passage in depth—mossy forested islands, marine life, and misty skies.
Highlights:
Petroglyph Beach in Wrangell
Totem poles and salmon ladders in Ketchikan
Pro Tips:
Book lodging in advance—summer availability can be limited.
Walk along Creek Street in Ketchikan at dusk for golden hour shots.
How Much Does It Cost?
Juneau → Haines:
Walk-On Fare (Adult): $50–$70
Car Fare (Standard Vehicle):~$140
Juneau → Petersburg:
Walk On Fare (Adult): $90–$110
Car Fare (Standard Vehicle): ~$190
Petersburg → Ketchikan:
Walk On Fare (Adult): $110–$130
Car Fare (Standard Vehicle): ~$220
Prices vary depending on the season, vessel, and whether you book early. Reservations are highly recommended, especially from June through August.
Book at: dot.alaska.gov/amhs
Discount Tip: AMHS occasionally offers off-season or round-trip discounts. Sign up for their alerts.
Car Tip: Oversized vehicles (like camper vans) are charged by the foot. Measure before booking.
What to Pack for Ferry Travel
Layers: Temperatures vary widely. Bring a windproof jacket, fleece, and thermal base layers.
Waterproof Gear: Rain is part of the charm. A dry bag or waterproof backpack is helpful.
Camera Gear:
DSLR or mirrorless with a zoom lens (70–300mm)
Tripod for sunrise/sunset shots
Extra batteries and memory cards
Snacks & Reusables: Cafeterias are simple—bring your own snacks and a water bottle.
Entertainment: A journal, a good book, or a field guide to Alaska wildlife.
Sleeping Gear: If you're not in a cabin, bring a sleeping bag or blanket and use the solarium (top deck) where heat lamps and reclining chairs make for a unique overnight experience.
Best Photography Stops on the Route
Auke Bay (Juneau Departure): Excellent morning light and mountain reflections.
Lynn Canal: Eagles, whales, and alpenglow. Bring your long lens.
Petersburg Harbor: Blue hour images with fishing boats and mountains.
Wrangell Narrows: Great for wide angles and storytelling shots—navigational markers, small islands, and misty layers.
Creek Street (Ketchikan): Colorful stilted buildings over salmon streams—perfect in soft morning light.
Photography Tip: Overcast days bring out rich greens and moody blues—ideal for Alaska’s landscape.
Local Tips for Smooth Travel
Arrive Early: For walk-ons, be there at least 1 hour before. With a car, arrive 2 hours early.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and cell service are limited—download your maps, reservations, and playlists beforehand.
Plan for Delays: Weather can shift plans—add buffer time between connections.
Luggage: You can bring multiple bags, but there’s limited storage—keep essentials with you.
Check-In: Each ferry terminal has different processes; signage can be minimal. Ask a terminal agent if you’re unsure.
Optional Add-On Itinerary (Free Download!)
Want a ready-to-go 5-day Southeast Alaska itinerary that includes:
Ferry routes
Lodging recommendations
Photo spots
Daily timing tips
Final Thoughts
Traveling Southeast Alaska by ferry is slower, quieter, and more immersive than other modes of transportation. It connects you to the rhythm of this place—and gives you the time and space to see it through a photographer’s eyes.
If you’re looking for help planning your ferry-based Alaska trip, or if you’d like to join me for a personalized photo adventure, get in touch. This is my home, and I’d love to help you experience it like a local.
P.S. Have a question about a route or a photo location? Drop it in the comments or send me a message—I'm happy to help.