Skagway Ferry Dock Sank!!!

[Gitane]

Just came across this:

 

http://dot.alaska.gov/comm/pressbox/arch_2014/PR14-2522.shtml

 

Probably won't affect the cruise ships in Skagway, but for vehicles going to other stops like Haines, something to consider. But I 'spose it will be taken care of pretty quickly!!

[fischymom]

Wow not good, hope that it does not cause major effects to the tourism there. Thinking of those whose livelihoods depend on tourism say if it were to be a year or more project to repair-replace. :(

[grobma]

Here's the latest statement from the state. It sounds like it affects local ferry service - not necessarily cruise ships.

 

http://www.dot.state.ak.us/amhs/doc/skg_dock3.pdf

[GeorgiaPeach]

Wow, really sorry to hear about this for the locals. Hope that it's back in service soon for them!

[bearbait]

Skagway is connected to the road system so it isn't the end of the world. If the residents really need to get on the ferry system all they have to do is drive to Haines to get on it. A pain no doubt but not like the other Alaskan towns in southeast that have no road connection at all to the outside.

[Shmoo here]

Here's the latest statement from the state. It sounds like it affects local ferry service - not necessarily cruise ships.

 

http://www.dot.state.ak.us/amhs/doc/skg_dock3.pdf

 

Unless your cruise ship docks in Haines, and your privately booked excursion departs from Skagway.

[donaldsc]

Skagway is connected to the road system so it isn't the end of the world. If the residents really need to get on the ferry system all they have to do is drive to Haines to get on it. A pain no doubt but not like the other Alaskan towns in southeast that have no road connection at all to the outside.

 

Check the distance on Google - the real driving distance, not the distance by ferry which is what is shown on Google Maps. You have to go up Route 3 to Haines Junction, over on Route 1 to Whitehorse and then down on Route 2 to Haines. It is a very pretty drive (I have done it) but the distance is 352 miles and takes 8 hours and 23 minutes according to Google instead of the 19 miles by ferry.

 

A bit of a difference and not very practical.

 

You would be better off flying which you can do for about $80 or even hiring a boat.

 

DON

[bearbait]

Check the distance on Google - the real driving distance, not the distance by ferry which is what is shown on Google Maps. You have to go up Route 3 to Haines Junction, over on Route 1 to Whitehorse and then down on Route 2 to Haines. It is a very pretty drive (I have done it) but the distance is 352 miles and takes 8 hours and 23 minutes according to Google instead of the 19 miles by ferry.

 

A bit of a difference and not very practical.

 

You would be better off flying which you can do for about $80 or even hiring a boat.

 

DON

 

The drive is very practical. I've done it at least 15 times. You do know that this is the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system that we are talking about? That's their dock. Like I said while it would not be fun it's not Skagway's only connection to the outside road system. In Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Petersburg or Wrangell a failure like this could be a major disruption and make life a lot more difficult. In Skagway or Haines, they have options there.

[huskyguy]

Unless your cruise ship docks in Haines, and your privately booked excursion departs from Skagway.

 

Excursions use the private ferry/cat that docks in the Small Boat Harbor, not at the AMHS dock. This dock issue has no effect on the cruise industry.

[huskyguy]

The dock is now back in place - above water. Not in service yet, though.