Alaskan Marine Highway, USA
Airing Date: Jan 1st, 2002
The highway is actually a 1900km stretch of water along Alaska's 'Inside Passage' and it links 14 seaside villages. If you want to explore the area on a budget then look no further than the Alaska State Ferry System. It has a fleet of up to nine ferries operating along the highway all year round.One of the stops on the highway is Ketchikan, a fishing village that can easily be explored by day. While you are there, make sure that you check out the 90-minute Lumberjack extravaganza, which runs every day of the year. You'll see enough chopping, climbing and logrolling to last you a lifetime.If you love seafood then you'll also be happy to know that Ketchikan is the salmon capital of the world. Pick up some great salmon for lunch and then jump on the Le Conte ferry for Sitka.Sitka is a picturesque former capital of Russian Alaska and it still retains many Russian buildings including St Michael's Cathedral and Governor Baranov's castle. History was made here in 1867 when Russia sold Alaska to the Americans. One of the most charming things about Sitka is the way that the locals still keep the Russian heritage alive.Accommodation on the ferry covers all price ranges and if you are looking to save some money, then pack a pillow as the Le Conte ferry ride runs a 20-hour overnight cruise. The cruise has accommodation ranging from reclining chairs to sleeping under the stars on the top deck.If you don't really want to rough it, cabin accommodation is available but you will pay extra.
The facts
Air New Zealand flies to Los Angeles every day and tickets cost from $2204 from Sydney and $3004 from Perth.
Traveland
Tel: 132 002
Alaska Airlines has regular connections to Ketchikan from $326 one way.
Alaska Airlines
Tel: 02-9244 2317
Ketchikan to Sitka one-way ferry ride is available from $115 per person.
Accommodation is available at the Westmark Shee Atika from $192 per
double per night.
Alaska Travel Industry Association
Tel: 02 9262 5821
Alaska's Marine Highway
Ketchikan Convention and Visitors Bureau
