FerryConnect

USA (Alaska)

Ketchikan → Metlakatla (Annette Island)

The dedicated AMHS shuttle from Ketchikan to Annette Island, home of Metlakatla, Alaska’s only Indian reservation, where most residents are Tsimshian.

Ketchikan to Metlakatla (Annette Island) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Ketchikan to Metlakatla (Annette Island) takes About 45m across the Revillagigedo Channel, operated by Alaska Marine Highway System. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: three round trips a day on the Lituya from November 2026.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: dot.alaska.gov · dot.alaska.gov · dot.alaska.gov · How we verify

Return crossing: Metlakatla (Annette Island) to Ketchikan

Alaska Marine Highway System also sails Metlakatla (Annette Island) to Ketchikan, taking About 45m. Return sailings from Annette Bay also take 45 minutes.

Ketchikan to Metlakatla (Annette Island) ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Lituya grid for November 2026 – March 2027: departures from Ketchikan at 7:30am, 10:45am and 4:15pm

The Lituya grid shows no September 2026 sailings; the Inter-Island Ferry Authority ran a limited Ketchikan – Metlakatla service in early autumn 2026.

Published departure times

  • 7:30am
  • 10:45am
  • 4:15pm

Return: Return sailings from Annette Bay also take 45 minutes.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Alaska Marine Highway System timetable →Check prices & book on Alaska Marine Highway System →

Source: Alaska Marine Highway System schedule grids (Sep 2026 – Mar 2027). Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Ketchikan and Metlakatla (Annette Island)

📐 8 Nautical Miles
Ketchikan⇄Metlakatla (Annette Island)
⏱ About 45m · 📐 8 nm
⚓ Operator website

Ready to cross from Ketchikan to Metlakatla (Annette Island)?

Book your crossing with Alaska Marine Highway System: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Alaska Marine Highway SystemAbout 45mLituya

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

8 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Ketchikan terminal is at 3501 Tongass Avenue, 2 miles from town

Tips for the Ketchikan to Metlakatla (Annette Island) Crossing

  • Annette Island Reserve waters and land are locally controlled rather than under state jurisdiction
  • Pets must stay on the car deck in a carrier or your vehicle; passengers cannot visit the car deck while under way

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Ketchikan to Metlakatla (Annette Island)?
The crossing typically takes About 45m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Ketchikan to Metlakatla (Annette Island) ferry sail?
Lituya grid for November 2026 – March 2027: departures from Ketchikan at 7:30am, 10:45am and 4:15pm. The Lituya grid shows no September 2026 sailings; the Inter-Island Ferry Authority ran a limited Ketchikan – Metlakatla service in early autumn 2026. This is the pattern published in the Alaska Marine Highway System schedule grids (Sep 2026 – Mar 2027) (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Ketchikan to Metlakatla (Annette Island)?
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 Ketchikan to Metlakatla (Annette Island) 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 Ketchikan to Metlakatla (Annette Island) 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 Ketchikan to Metlakatla (Annette Island) 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 Ketchikan from Metlakatla (Annette Island) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 8 nautical miles (roughly 15 km).