FerryConnect

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

📐 80 Nautical Miles
Whittier⇄Valdez
⏱ About 5h 45m · 📐 80 nm
🚗 Operator website

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

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Alaska Marine Highway SystemAbout 5h 45mAurora

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Whittier to Valdez?
The crossing typically takes About 5h 45m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Whittier to Valdez ferry sail?
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. 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 Whittier to Valdez?
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 Whittier to Valdez 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 Whittier to Valdez 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 Whittier to Valdez 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 Whittier from Valdez by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 80 nautical miles (roughly 148 km).