Valdez Ferry Terminal
Valdez Ferry Terminal: Your scenic and affordable gateway to Alaska's stunning coast via the Alaska Marine Highway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views, calmer seas
Valdez Ferry Terminal
Best Time
Best views, calmer seas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Valdez Ferry Terminal: Your scenic and affordable gateway to Alaska's stunning coast via the Alaska Marine Highway.
"Loved the experience! Beautiful views, friendly staff, and clean vessel."
🎯 Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive 1-1.5 hours before departure to ensure smooth boarding.
🔌 Stay Charged Onboard
Utilize the convenient charging stations available on the ferry.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.2 · 15 reviews
Type
Ferry Terminal
Address
Website
dot.alaska.gov/amhsHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Alaska Marine Highway
Valdez to Whittier/Cordova routes
Experience breathtaking Alaskan vistas from the deck of a ferry. A budget-friendly way to see the Last Frontier.
Onboard Amenities
Ferry vessels
Enjoy convenient charging stations and onboard dining. Friendly staff enhance the comfortable and clean vessel experience.
Gateway to Whittier & Cordova
Valdez Ferry Terminal
The primary choice for travel to Whittier or Cordova, offering a unique and scenic journey across Alaskan waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Alaska Marine Highway System
Ferry Travel Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive 1-1.5 hours before departure to ensure smooth boarding.
🔌 Stay Charged Onboard
Utilize the convenient charging stations available on the ferry.
Marine Highway Valdez
Hey everyone, I was hoping to take the marine highway from Valdez to Cordova with a car in August. I found the ferry schedule online but the trip times on Aurora are 12-15 hours one way! I see in May the trips are only like 5 hours. Any idea why it takes so long? Also can you…
🚗 No Car Access During Trip
Remember you cannot access your vehicle while the ferry is in transit.
🍽️ Enjoy Onboard Dining
Reasonably priced and good food is available at the onboard restaurant.
Today I learned that the cheapest way to cruise Alaska is through the government Alaska Marine Highway System
I’ve always wanted to go to Alaska but the prices on the main cruise lines is about as large as the State itself! Apparently, through the government ran AMHS, you can save a whole lot of money and you can choose exactly which ports you want to go. They even offer a ferry…
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive 1-1.5 hours before departure to ensure smooth boarding.
🔌 Stay Charged Onboard
Utilize the convenient charging stations available on the ferry.
🚗 No Car Access During Trip
Remember you cannot access your vehicle while the ferry is in transit.
🍽️ Enjoy Onboard Dining
Reasonably priced and good food is available at the onboard restaurant.
⛰️ Embrace Alaska Weather
Be prepared for unpredictable Alaskan weather; it's part of the adventure!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for the Valdez Ferry Terminal highlight its role as a scenic and budget-friendly gateway to Alaska's coast, particularly for travel to Whittier and Cordova. While some find the efficiency lacking compared to other systems, many praise the beautiful views, friendly staff, and onboard amenities like charging stations and dining. The inability to access vehicles during the trip is a noted inconvenience.
"Ridiculously inefficient, especially comparing to Seattle ferry systems. Staff work really hard to fit everybody in but is usually not very successful. Boat is also small."
Xiaoyu Liu
"Loved how there were charging stations at the booths on the ferry. Great food at the restaurant on board! Beautiful views. Loved the experience. Friendly staff! Clean vessel."
The 3 B. Lockwins
"If you ever get the opportunity to go over and see Whittier or Cordova this is the absolute only choice or fly can be a little bit pricey but very nice boat."
The Traveling Breeze
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Valdez Ferry Terminal is accessible by road, typically via the scenic Richardson Highway. It serves as a key hub for the Alaska Marine Highway System, connecting Valdez to other coastal communities like Whittier and Cordova.
Yes, the Valdez Ferry Terminal is a crucial part of the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS), a state-run ferry service offering transportation along Alaska's coast.
The primary routes from Valdez Ferry Terminal connect to Whittier and Cordova, offering scenic journeys through Alaskan waters.
Yes, vehicles can be transported on the ferries departing from Valdez. However, you will not have access to your car during the voyage.
It's recommended to arrive 1 to 1.5 hours before your scheduled departure time to allow for boarding procedures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Valdez Ferry Terminal can typically be booked through the Alaska Marine Highway System website or by contacting their reservation office. Booking in advance is advised, especially during peak season.
The Alaska Marine Highway System generally offers different fare options, including vehicle transport and passenger-only tickets. Specific cabin options may also be available on longer routes.
Ferry ticket prices vary based on the route, vehicle size, and passenger count. The AMHS is known for being a more budget-friendly option compared to traditional cruises.
While it's best to book in advance, it may be possible to purchase tickets at the terminal, depending on availability. Checking with the AMHS directly is recommended.
Cancellation policies can vary. It's essential to review the specific terms and conditions provided by the Alaska Marine Highway System at the time of booking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Ferries often feature onboard restaurants serving reasonably priced food, as well as charging stations for electronic devices. The vessels are generally clean and well-maintained.
No, passengers do not have access to their vehicles while the ferry is in transit. All personal belongings should be taken with you into the passenger areas.
A ferry trip from Valdez to Whittier or Cordova can take approximately 6 hours, depending on the specific route and conditions.
Yes, ferries are equipped with restrooms and comfortable seating areas for passengers.
You can expect stunning views of Alaska's coastline, mountains, and potentially wildlife. The scenery is a major highlight of the journey.
📸 📸 Photography
The outer decks offer panoramic views, perfect for capturing the dramatic Alaskan landscape. Keep your camera ready for wildlife sightings!
Yes, with open deck spaces and large windows, it's easy to get great shots. Just be mindful of the wind and sea spray.
Landscape photography is ideal, but keep an eye out for marine life like whales or sea otters.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast scenery, while a telephoto lens can be useful for spotting and photographing distant wildlife.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography, but always be respectful of other passengers and crew.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit