FerryConnect

USA (Alaska)

Bellingham (Washington) → Ketchikan (Alaska)

The Alaska Marine Highway’s southern terminus: a two-night voyage from Washington State up the Inside Passage to Ketchikan, the first Alaskan port. Passengers can pitch tents on deck or book cabins, and the route continues north to Juneau and Haines.

⏱ About 38h – 40h🚢 1 operator📅 Roughly weekly in summer; less often in winter🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly

Bellingham (Washington) to Ketchikan (Alaska) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Bellingham (Washington) to Ketchikan (Alaska) takes About 38h – 40h across the Inside Passage, operated by Alaska Marine Highway System. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: roughly weekly in summer; less often in winter.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Bellingham (Washington) and Ketchikan (Alaska)

📐 600 Nautical Miles
Bellingham (Washington)⇄Ketchikan (Alaska)
⏱ About 38h – 40h · 📐 600 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
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Ready to cross from Bellingham (Washington) to Ketchikan (Alaska)?

Check live availability, fares and sailing times with Direct Ferries.

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Alaska Marine Highway SystemAbout 38h – 40hMainline ferries with cabins

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

600 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Bellingham terminal is in the Fairhaven district, near Amtrak Cascades trains and Greyhound
  • Ketchikan ferry terminal is north of downtown; connections continue north through Southeast Alaska

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp on deck on the Alaska ferry?
Yes. On Alaska Marine Highway mainline ferries, passengers without cabins can sleep in lounges or the covered solarium, and tents are permitted on some outer decks.
How long is the ferry from Bellingham (Washington) to Ketchikan (Alaska)?
The crossing typically takes About 38h – 40h. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
Which ferry companies sail from Bellingham (Washington) to Ketchikan (Alaska)?
Alaska Marine Highway System operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Bellingham (Washington) to Ketchikan (Alaska) ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Bellingham (Washington) to Ketchikan (Alaska) ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Bellingham (Washington) to Ketchikan (Alaska) ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Bellingham (Washington) from Ketchikan (Alaska) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 600 nautical miles (roughly 1111 km).