USA (Alaska)
Whittier → Valdez
A day across Prince William Sound from Whittier, reached from Anchorage through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, to Valdez on the Aurora.
Whittier to Valdez ferry at a glance
The ferry from Whittier to Valdez takes About 5h 45m across the Prince William Sound, operated by Alaska Marine Highway System. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: several sailings a week in September; limited in October; no service November – February; resumes in March 2027.
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: Valdez to Whittier
Alaska Marine Highway System also sails Valdez to Whittier, taking About 5h 45m. Valdez → Whittier sailings also take 5h 45m.
Whittier to Valdez ferry timetable & sailing pattern
13 Whittier → Valdez sailings in September 2026 (departing 2:45pm), three in October and three in March 2027
The Prince William Sound grid has no sailings from November 2026 to February 2027.
Published departure times
- 2:45pm (September 2026)
Return: Valdez → Whittier sailings also take 5h 45m.
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 Whittier and Valdez
Ready to cross from Whittier to Valdez?
Book your crossing with Alaska Marine Highway System: live fares, availability and sailing times.
Operators on This Route
| Operator | Crossing Time | Vessels |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Marine Highway System | About 5h 45m | Aurora |
Route Features
Vehicles
Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted
Foot Passengers
Walk-on passengers welcome
Pets
Pets allowed with valid documents
Distance
80 nautical miles
Getting There & Onward Transport
- Whittier connects to the Seward Highway through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the longest combined rail-and-road tunnel in North America
- Valdez terminal is at 520 Ferry Way West, 1 mile from town
Tips for the Whittier to Valdez Crossing
- Vehicles check in 1.5 hours before departure at Whittier and Valdez
- Pets must stay on the car deck in a carrier or your vehicle; passengers cannot visit the car deck while under way