How to Get to Inside Passage. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Most travelers commence their journey to the Inside Passage from major hubs outside Alaska. Within the Inside Passage, regional airports support access to towns.

Air Hubs

Gateway Airports: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and Vancouver International Airport (YVR) are common starting points.
Alaskan Airports: Juneau International Airport (JNU), Ketchikan International Airport (KTN), Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT).
Airlines: Alaska Airlines serves as the main carrier. Smaller airlines (Ravn Alaska, Alaska Seaplanes, Taquan Air) serve smaller communities.

Flight Options & Transfers

Direct flights to Seattle or Vancouver are accessible from numerous global hubs. Direct flights into Inside Passage airports mainly depart from Seattle or Anchorage. For other global origins, expect a connection.

Flight & Airport Details

Seasonal Prices: Flight prices attain their peak during summer (June-August). Shoulder seasons (May, September) present slightly lower fares.
Airport Facilities: Major airports (SEA, YVR) maintain full services. Alaskan regional airports possess more limited facilities.
Transfers: SEA: Link Light Rail to downtown. YVR: SkyTrain Canada Line. JNU: Taxis, Capital Transit bus, hotel shuttles. KTN: Ferry ride to downtown.

Flight Deals

Find competitive airfares and deals with resources like Dollar Flight Club.

Price Comparison

Compare flight prices from various airlines via Skyscanner for the best rates.

Car Rental Comparison

For car rentals, compare options on DiscoverCars.com.

Land Transportation

Road & Border Considerations

Direct land travel into the Inside Passage holds significant limitations.
Border Crossings: Driving or taking a bus to Alaska through Canada means standard U.S.-Canada border crossing requirements apply.
Self-Driving: Direct driving to most Inside Passage communities without a vehicle ferry crossing is not possible. Only Skagway or Haines hold road access from outside the region via the Alaska Highway and Klondike Highway.
Road Conditions: Roads within Inside Passage towns commonly maintain good condition but can be steep. Outside towns, roads are often gravel. Wildlife on roads poses a considerable hazard.

Train & Bus Travel

Train Connections: Direct train service linking Inside Passage communities to the contiguous U.S. Or Canada is absent. The Alaska Railroad operates in Southcentral and Interior Alaska but does not reach the coastal Inside Passage region.
Long-Distance Buses: Direct long-distance bus access to Inside Passage towns is limited to non-existent. Buses connect major cities in the Lower 48 to Anchorage or Fairbanks, but do not reach coastal Inside Passage communities.
Local Driving Laws: Standard U.S. Driving laws pertain. Speed limits commonly register as lower.
Parking: Parking in downtown areas might present challenges, especially on cruise ship days. Look for designated parking lots.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services

The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) links Bellingham, Washington, Prince Rupert, BC, and various Inside Passage communities (Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka, etc.). It has passenger and vehicle transport.

Cruise Ports

Major cruise lines commonly sail to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Icy Strait Point. These ports are prepared for large cruise ships.

Immigration

Immigration clearance happens upon arrival at the first U.S. Port of call for cruises. Standard customs and immigration procedures pertain when entering/exiting Canada.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

No specific exit fees apply for departing the U.S. From Alaska. Cruise fares and air tickets commonly incorporate all relevant taxes and fees in the quoted price.

Departure Guidelines

Airports: Arrival at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.
Cruises: Disembarkation times proceed in staggered fashion. Disembarkation typically commences early in the morning.
Ferry: Arrival at least 30-60 minutes before departure for foot passengers; allow more time for vehicles.

Facilities for Departing Travelers

Facilities differ by location. Major hubs outside Alaska offer extensive amenities, while Alaskan regional airports provide basic services.

Airport Amenities

Major Hubs (SEA, YVR): Extensive facilities including restaurants, shops, and lounges.
Alaskan Airports: Basic amenities suitable for departing travelers.
Connections: Cruise ports commonly reside within walking distance or a short shuttle ride to town centers. Ferry terminals might sit slightly outside town centers.

General Air Travel Notes

Flight operations can vary, especially during off-peak seasons.

Reminders

Always confirm your airport and terminal ahead of time.
Verify flight times frequently, especially for regional carriers.
Allow ample time for security checks, which can be longer during peak periods.

Cruise Disembarkation Tips

Smooth transition from ship to shore.

Departure Advice

Tag your luggage properly with assigned numbers.
Consider self-disembarkation if you prefer to carry your own bags and depart earlier.
Settle any outstanding onboard account balances the night before.

International Travelers

Ensure all visa documentation for your next destination is in order.
Verify passport validity for six months beyond your next travel date.
Be aware of any specific entry requirements for transit countries.

Keep all travel itineraries accessible, both digitally and physically.
Manage any remaining local currency before departure.
Review your travel insurance policy for post-trip coverage.

Preparing for Departure

Final Checks

A smooth departure process benefits from these final checks.

Checklist for Departing Travelers

Confirm departure location and time.
Ensure all baggage tags are correct.
Charge all electronic devices.

Customs & Security

Be ready for final procedures.

Security Reminders

Have your passport and boarding pass ready.
Follow all liquid and electronics rules for carry-on bags.
For any issues, look for airport staff or security personnel.

Digital Copies

Ensure digital copies of all essential documents are accessible on your phone or cloud storage.

Financial Wrap-up

Settle all outstanding balances and consider converting any remaining local currency.

Assistance

Do not hesitate to approach airport or port authority staff for assistance with any departure procedures.

Final Preparations

Travel Insurance Review

Before heading home, a quick review of your travel insurance policy.

Policy Check

Confirm coverage for the journey home.
Understand medical coverage for any incidents during transit.
Check for flight delay or cancellation benefits.

Packing Efficiency

Maximize space for souvenirs and a smooth passage.

Smart Packing for Return

Consolidate luggage and consider checked vs. Carry-on limits.
Pack souvenirs carefully, especially fragile items.
Be aware of weight limits to avoid excess baggage fees.

Post-Trip Considerations

Memory Preservation

Organize and backup photos/videos from your trip.

Feedback

Consider leaving reviews for accommodations, tours, and cruise lines.

Share Experiences

Share your Alaska Inside Passage story with friends and family.

Final Tip

Double-check all pockets and compartments for forgotten items before finalizing your packing.

How to Get to Inside Passage