FAQs
What to Expect on Your Journey
The Trip
The Haines-Skagway Fast Ferry transits the Taiya Inlet of Lynn Canal, the longest and deepest fjord of North America. Three major waterfalls are viewable from the vessel: Long Falls, Twin Falls and Sawmill Falls. Depending on the season and the time of day, humpback whales, bald eagles, and seals can be seen from the inner and outer decks of the vessel. A knowledgeable Naturalist/Guide will be narrating and answering questions about the natural history, the geology, and man’s influence upon Taiya Inlet.
Are the vessels able to transport vehicles or trailers?
No, we do not transport any motorized vehicles or trailers. We are a passenger only ferry.
Accommodations
Each vessel has upper and lower deck enclosed areas with heating and a full PA System. Outer deck space is open to passengers who want to get closer to the sights and sounds of Taiya Inlet. Two restrooms are available to passengers after the vessel gets underway and before docking. Please observe the posted signs to assist you as you get comfortable on board.
Are the vessels accessible by wheelchair?
For safety reasons, motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs CANNOT be accommodated aboard the ferry. Guests must be able to walk up and/or down the ramp to the fast ferry. Under Federal law and due to special marine safety construction guidelines, USCG-regulated small vessels are not subject to land-based architectural configuration requirements. Although we do our best to accommodate passengers with limited mobility consistent with our vessel capabilities, staffing and the docking space which is publicly owned and controlled, we can do a better job with advance notice. Every passenger must be able to board the ferry without the assistance of a wheelchair on the ramp or stairs. Wheelchairs must be stowed while underway for the safety of other passengers.
Your trip will take about 45 minutes, depending on weather conditions, tides and vessel traffic in and out of the harbors. Every effort is made by the captain and crew to expedite the boarding and disembarkment of the vessel. Please help us by being 15 minutes early to the dock and following the directives of the dockside support, vessel crew and captain.
Food Service
Complimentary coffee and water are available on board in the Galley on the main deck. There are food concessions for sale on board the ferry, however, you’re welcome to bring and enjoy your own food on board.
Animals
Service animals are always welcome on board. Pets are also welcome either in animal carriers or on a leash. Make sure your pet is accompanied by you or a member of your party at all times. Leashed pets will need to stay on our outer-upper deck. Please be respectful of other passengers in regards to your animal.
Smoking
Our vessels are non-smoking, including e-cigarettes.
Luggage
We have luggage storage on-board when we are underway however we do not have luggage storage in either Haines or Skagway.
Availability
We recommend our guests to book online through our reservations page. This is the fastest and most convenient for you! We keep an updated sailing schedule on our page for any departure questions. If you do have further questions, please give us a call or send us an email and we will get back to you within 2 business days.
All departures operate at the sole discretion of the Coast Guard-certified Captain. We reserve the right to cancel, delay, or reschedule any trip due to weather, safety concerns, mechanical issues, or conditions beyond our control. If a trip is canceled by us, guests will receive a full refund, which constitutes the sole remedy. Refunds will be issued to the original form of payment within a reasonable processing period. We are not responsible for any additional costs, expenses, or losses incurred by guests.
Who's Onboard?
There are a minimum of 3 crew members on board each vessel:
- A United States Coast Guard licensed Captain
- An Engineer/Deckhand
- A Naturalist/Passenger Service Coordinator
The crew will do their best to meet your needs and offer assistance when needed.
Between Here & There
Bicycles are welcome for a charge of $10 per bike.
Kayaks or Rafts
$25 to transport kayaks or rafts between Haines and Skagway. Please arrive 15 minutes earlier than your departure time to allow for staging, loading, and stowing of the kayaks.
Freight
Please refer to our freight policy