Getting There
Kodiak Ferry Guide
How to ride the Alaska Marine Highway ferry to Kodiak from Homer — schedules, cost, cabins, vehicles, and what the Shelikof Strait crossing is actually like.
Quick answer
The Alaska Marine Highway MV Tustumena runs between Homer and Kodiak in roughly 9–12 hours. Walk-on fares are about $115–$130; adding a car runs $270–$320. Sailings are limited — book weeks or months in advance for summer.
The route
The Tustumena runs from Homer to Kodiak as its main scheduled leg, and continues to Chain / Aleutian ports monthly. Some sailings originate in Whittier. Check the current Alaska Marine Highway schedule before planning.
Should you take the ferry or fly?
| Factor | Ferry | Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Time | 9–12 hours + shore travel to Homer | 55 min from Anchorage |
| Cost | $115–$130 walk-on | $150–$400 depending on booking |
| Vehicle | Yes ($270+) | No |
| Vibe | Slow, scenic, potentially rough | Fast, weather-dependent |
Booking tips
- Cabins sell out fastest — book as soon as the schedule opens.
- Bring earplugs, snacks, seasickness meds, warm layers.
- Vehicle reservations require deck-space allocation; do not walk on with a car and expect space.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from Homer to Kodiak?
The Alaska Marine Highway's MV Tustumena run from Homer to Kodiak takes roughly 9–12 hours depending on weather and stops.
How much is the Kodiak ferry?
A walk-on adult fare from Homer runs about $115–$130. Adding a standard vehicle (under 15 ft) is roughly $270–$320. Cabins and larger vehicles cost more.
Can you drive to Kodiak Alaska?
No — Kodiak Island is an island in the Gulf of Alaska. To bring a vehicle you must take the Alaska Marine Highway ferry.
Is the ferry rough?
The crossing of Shelikof Strait can be rough in poor weather. Bring non-drowsy seasickness medication, and consider a reserved cabin for overnight sailings.