So, You Wanna Ditch the Dramamine and Take a Ferry to Alaska? Buckle Up, Buttercup!
Ever dreamt of cruising to Alaska in style, the spray of the ocean mist gently caressing your face (okay, maybe not that gentle), and majestic glaciers slowly creeping by? Well, ditch the visions of giant cruise ships overflowing with buffet lines and shuffleboard tournaments, because we're talking about a different kind of Alaskan adventure: the ferry!
But hold on there, Captain Can't-decide, before you dust off your sea legs, there's a crucial question to answer: Can you actually take a ferry from Seattle straight to Anchorage?
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| Can You Take A Ferry From Seattle To Anchorage |
The Plot Twist: Not Quite There Yet...
Well, here's the thing. As of now, there isn't a direct ferry service between Seattle and Anchorage. Think of it like that movie with the perfect ending... except they forgot to film the last scene. Don't worry, though, this doesn't mean your Alaskan ferry dream is dead in the water!
QuickTip: Scroll back if you lose track.
Let's Get You to Anchorage (With a Scenic Detour)
The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) ferries are legendary for their stunning coastal journeys, and they can definitely get you close to Anchorage. Here's the skinny:
- You can catch an AMHS ferry from Bellingham, Washington (a short hop north of Seattle) to Whittier, Alaska, a port town nestled within a glacial fjord.
- Whittier's pretty darn cool, but it's not quite Anchorage. Fear not, intrepid traveler! From Whittier, you can:
- Drive: Rent a car and enjoy a scenic 14-hour road trip to Anchorage (don't forget to factor in epic mountain views and potential moose sightings!).
- Take another ferry: The AMHS also operates a route from Whittier across Prince William Sound to Valdez. From there, it's a shorter drive to Anchorage.
So, is the Ferry Right for You?
Taking the ferry to Alaska is an unforgettable experience, offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Here's a quick rundown to help you decide:
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
Pros:
- Spectacular scenery: Witness towering mountains, glaciers, and marine wildlife up close.
- Relaxing pace: Escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the serenity of the sea.
- Bring your car: Perfect for road-tripping adventures in Alaska.
Cons:
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
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- Longer travel time: It'll take significantly longer than flying.
- Limited schedule: Ferries operate seasonally, so plan accordingly.
- Not a direct route: You'll need to factor in additional travel from Whittier to Anchorage.
Still on the Fence? Fear Not, FAQ to the Rescue!
- How to book a ferry from Bellingham to Whittier?
Check out the Alaska Marine Highway System website for schedules and reservations:
- How long does the ferry ride take from Bellingham to Whittier?
The journey takes about 60 hours, so bring a good book (or ten)!
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
- What are the must-haves for a ferry trip?
Layers of clothing for unpredictable weather, binoculars for wildlife spotting, and a sense of adventure!
- Can I bring my car on the ferry?
Absolutely! Reserve a spot for your four-wheeled companion in advance.
- Is there food available on the ferry?
There are restaurants and cafes onboard, but packing some snacks is always a good idea.
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