How to Get to Haines, Alaska: By Ferry, Plane, Road, and Cruise
You can get to Haines, Alaska, by road, ferry, plane, or cruise ship. The best option depends on where you’re starting, your available time, and if you’re bringing a vehicle. Unlike many Inside Passage towns, Haines connects to the Alaska Highway through Canada. We’ve reached Haines by road during our nearly year-long camper truck trip, by cruise ship, and by fast ferry from Skagway. In this guide, we compare transportation options, explain ferry arrival points, and share practical tips from our travels. You’ll find routes from Juneau, Skagway, Anchorage, and the Seattle area, plus advice for reaching town after you arrive.
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Our Experience Getting to Haines
We’ve reached Haines three different ways: by road, cruise ship, and passenger ferry.
During our nearly year-long road trip in a camper truck, we drove to Haines via the Haines Highway. Having our own vehicle gave us the freedom to explore beyond downtown and stop for photographs along the way.
We also visited aboard Norwegian Jewel during a cruise from Seward to Vancouver. On another trip, we took the fast ferry from Skagway to Haines to spend more time in town.
These journeys gave us different perspectives on arriving in Haines. Driving suited our longer road trip, while the cruise and fast ferry worked for shorter visits.
Below, we combine those firsthand experiences with verified transportation information. We haven’t flown into Haines, so the flight section draws on current airline information.
How to Get to Haines: Quick Comparison
The best way to get to Haines depends on your starting point and whether you need a vehicle. Here’s a quick comparison before we explain each route.
| Transportation | Best for | Bring a vehicle? | Main consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | Road trips through Alaska and Canada | Yes | The road route passes through Canada, so plan for border crossings. |
| Flying via Juneau | Travelers with limited time | No | Allow time for connections and check regional airline baggage limits. |
| Alaska Marine Highway ferry | Traveling with a car, camper, or RV | Yes | Check sailing dates and reserve vehicle space early. |
| Haines–Skagway Fast Ferry | Passenger trips between Skagway and Haines | No | This seasonal service carries passengers only. |
| Alaska Fjordlines | Seasonal passenger travel from Juneau or Skagway | No | Check operating dates and available routes. |
| Cruise ship | Visiting Haines during an Alaska cruise | No | Choose an itinerary that specifically includes Haines. |
If you’re bringing a car or RV, focus on driving or the Alaska Marine Highway. For a visit without a vehicle, compare flights and passenger ferries from your departure city.
If you’re visiting Haines by cruise ship, use our one-day itinerary for cruise passengers to plan your time in port.
Can You Drive to Haines, Alaska?
Yes, you can drive to Haines via the Haines Highway, which connects with the Alaska Highway at Haines Junction, Yukon. The route passes through Canada, even if you start in Anchorage or another road-connected Alaska town.
Driving works well for longer visits, especially if you’re traveling with a camper or RV. We drove this route during our nearly year-long camper truck trip.
Driving via Haines Junction and the Haines Highway
Haines and Haines Junction are different towns in different countries. Haines sits on Alaska’s coast. Haines Junction is in Canada’s Yukon, where you turn onto the Haines Highway.
From Haines Junction, follow the Haines Highway south for approximately 150 miles. The route crosses Yukon and British Columbia before entering Alaska and continuing to Haines.
Allow around 3.5 hours, plus time for the border crossing and stops. Mountain views, alpine tundra, and the Chilkat Valley make this a drive worth taking slowly.
The Alaska section is a National Scenic Byway. Near Haines, the road follows the Chilkat River through the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve.
Driving to Haines From Anchorage, Whitehorse, Seattle, or Vancouver
Your route depends on your starting point:
- From Anchorage: Follow the Glenn Highway toward Tok, then take the Alaska Highway into Canada. Continue to Haines Junction and turn south onto the Haines Highway. The total distance is approximately 755 miles. We recommend splitting this drive over at least two days.
- From Whitehorse: Follow the Alaska Highway west to Haines Junction, then take the Haines Highway south. The total distance is approximately 250 miles. Leave most of a day for driving, stops, and the border crossing.
- From Seattle or Vancouver: Drive north through British Columbia toward Yukon. Depending on your route, use the Alaska Highway or the Stewart–Cassiar Highway to reach the Alaska Highway. Continue through Whitehorse to Haines Junction, then turn south toward Haines. Plan this as a multiday road trip.
For trips from Seattle or Vancouver, compare driving the entire route with taking a vehicle ferry from Bellingham. We explain that option below.
Border Crossings and Travel Documents
Driving to Haines requires international border crossings. From Anchorage, you enter Canada along the Alaska Highway, then reenter the United States on the Haines Highway.
We recommend carrying a valid passport for each traveler. Check entry requirements for your citizenship before departure, including documents needed to return to the United States.
Before you drive:
- Check border hours. The Haines Highway crossing uses Dalton Cache on the U.S. side and Pleasant Camp on the Canadian side. Confirm current hours and local time zones.
- Confirm rental permission. Ask your rental company about driving through Canada, including insurance coverage.
- Check road conditions. Use Alaska 511 and 511 Yukon, especially outside summer.
- Plan fuel stops. Refuel before longer stretches and carry food, water, and offline maps.
For a longer Alaska and Canada road trip, we also recommend carrying the current edition of The MILEPOST. We use it to plan routes, stops, and services.
Flying to Haines, Alaska
For most travelers flying to Haines, the simplest route connects through Juneau International Airport (JNU). From there, take a regional flight to Haines Airport (HNS).
Flying suits travelers who want to avoid a long drive or have limited time in Southeast Alaska.
Flights From Juneau to Haines
Alaska Seaplanes operates scheduled flights between Juneau and Haines throughout the year. Flight frequency changes seasonally.
A nonstop flight takes approximately 35 minutes. Some departures include a stop in Skagway, which increases travel time. Check the full itinerary before booking.
On clear days, the route offers mountain and coastal views. However, weather can delay or cancel flights, so leave flexibility in your plans.
For help planning the first leg of your journey, read our guide to getting to Juneau.
Flying From Seattle or Anchorage to Haines
From Seattle or Anchorage, fly to Juneau first, then connect with Alaska Seaplanes for the final leg.
Alaska Airlines serves Juneau from both cities. Compare arrival times carefully with the regional flight schedule before purchasing your tickets.
We recommend allowing several hours between separately booked flights. You may need to collect your luggage and check in again with Alaska Seaplanes.
Ask the regional airline about suitable connection times. An overnight stay in Juneau can help if your incoming flight arrives late.
For your return journey, avoid a tight connection between Haines and an expensive onward flight.
Baggage, Check-In, and Airport Pickup
Small aircraft have different baggage rules from major airlines. Check these details before packing:
- Baggage allowance: Alaska Seaplanes currently allows 50 pounds per passenger on scheduled flights.
- Carry-on bags: All baggage is checked. Standard carry-on baggage is not permitted aboard its aircraft.
- Extra luggage: Excess baggage costs extra and may travel on a later flight.
- Check-in: Arrive at least 45 minutes before departure. Allow more time for oversized or excess luggage.
If you’re bringing camera equipment, ask the airline about packing and handling before you travel. Several smaller, soft-sided bags are recommended.
Arrange transportation from Haines Airport before arrival. The airport sits outside downtown along the Haines Highway.
Confirm a taxi, rental car pickup, or accommodation transfer in advance. Alaska Seaplanes does not provide ground transportation.
Getting to Haines by Ferry
You can reach Haines by ferry from Juneau, Skagway, or Bellingham, Washington. However, the services differ in travel time, season, and vehicle capacity.
The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) carries passengers and vehicles. The Haines–Skagway Fast Ferry and Alaska Fjordlines carry passengers only.
Ferry From Juneau to Haines
From Juneau, choose between the Alaska Marine Highway and seasonal Alaska Fjordlines service.
Alaska Marine Highway: The ferry journey typically takes approximately 4.5 hours, depending on the sailing. This option works for foot passengers and travelers bringing a car, camper, or RV.
Check the AMHS sailing schedule before arranging accommodation or onward transportation. Year-round service does not mean daily departures.
Alaska Fjordlines: The seasonal Fjord Express offers passenger transportation between Juneau and Haines. Its published schedule allows approximately three hours for this journey.
Check the operator’s schedule for your travel dates and select the appropriate one-way or overnight ticket.
The two operators use different departure points in Juneau. AMHS uses the Auke Bay ferry terminal. Alaska Fjordlines uses Statter Harbor in Auke Bay. Confirm the boarding location before arranging your ride.
Ferry From Skagway to Haines
For a passenger trip, the Haines–Skagway Fast Ferry takes approximately 45 minutes. It normally operates from May through September.
We enjoyed this crossing for its mountain views and convenient access between the two towns. Reserve your preferred departure and return times in advance.
If you need to bring a vehicle, use the Alaska Marine Highway. The crossing takes approximately one hour, depending on the sailing.
Alaska Fjordlines also offers seasonal passenger trips between Skagway and Haines. Some departures require calling the office to book.
For a cruise excursion, check your ship’s schedule carefully. Allow a generous return buffer, since weather can disrupt ferry service.
If you’re reaching Haines through Skagway, our guide to getting to Skagway explains your arrival options.
Ferry From Bellingham Near Seattle to Haines
The Alaska ferry departs from Bellingham, not downtown Seattle. Bellingham is approximately a two-hour drive north of Seattle, depending on traffic.
AMHS offers northbound itineraries through the Inside Passage to Haines. These journeys take several days, with intermediate port stops.
Check the complete itinerary for your date, including any required vessel changes. Avoid planning around a fixed three-day estimate.
For a longer sailing, we recommend reserving a cabin if your budget allows. Compare the total cost of passengers, vehicle transportation, accommodation, and meals.
This route can suit travelers bringing their own car or RV from the Lower 48.
Bringing a Car, Camper, or RV on the Ferry
Book vehicle space early and provide accurate dimensions. Measure the full length, including racks, attachments, and any connected trailer.
Keep these points in mind:
- Passenger fares are separate. The vehicle fare does not include the driver.
- Identify your RV when booking. Confirm any restrictions for its size and the selected vessel.
- You cannot sleep in your RV underway. Plan to use passenger areas or reserve a cabin.
- Pack a separate onboard bag. Access to the vehicle deck is restricted while sailing.
- Follow the required check-in time. Vehicle passengers need extra time for loading.
Finally, confirm your arrival dock in Haines. The three ferry operators use different locations, which we explain below.
Where Do Ferries Arrive in Haines?
Haines has three different ferry arrival points. Your operator determines where you dock and how you reach downtown.
| Ferry operator | Arrival location in Haines | Getting to downtown |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Marine Highway | Haines Ferry Terminal on Lutak Road, approximately 4 miles from town | Arrange a ride if you’re arriving without a vehicle. |
| Haines–Skagway Fast Ferry | Chilkoot Indian Association (CIA) dock on Beach Road, near Fort Seward | Walk toward Fort Seward and downtown, or arrange pickup if needed. |
| Alaska Fjordlines | Haines Small Boat Harbor, 32 Front Street | Walk into downtown from the waterfront. |
Getting From the AMHS Ferry Terminal to Downtown Haines
The Alaska Marine Highway terminal is outside downtown. If you’re traveling without a vehicle, arrange transportation before your sailing.
Book a taxi or ask your accommodation about pickup. Give them your ferry’s scheduled arrival time and confirm how to handle delays.
If you’re renting a car, confirm where you’ll collect it. Ask the company specifically about ferry-terminal pickup.
We recommend arranging a ride instead of walking four miles with luggage, especially in rain or after dark.
The terminal has indoor and outdoor seating, restrooms, and snack vending machines. However, plan meals and transportation before arrival.
Arriving at the Passenger Ferry Docks
The Fast Ferry and Alaska Fjordlines arrive closer to Haines’ main visitor areas.
From the CIA dock, you can begin with Fort Seward before continuing toward Main Street. From the Small Boat Harbor, you can walk directly into downtown.
Our self-guided downtown Haines walking tour explains how to explore both areas on foot.
If you have mobility concerns, contact your operator before booking. Harbor ramps can become steep with changing tides, and boarding arrangements vary.
For your return trip, use the dock listed on your booking confirmation. The passenger ferries and Alaska Marine Highway depart from separate locations.
Arriving in Haines by Cruise Ship
You can visit Haines on an Alaska cruise, but check the itinerary before booking. Some ships call directly at Haines. Others visit nearby Skagway instead.
Cruise ships calling at Haines generally use Port Chilkoot Dock, beside Fort William H. Seward. From there, you can explore the fort and continue into downtown on foot.
If you need transportation, confirm shuttle arrangements for your visit. Availability depends on the services operating that day.
A stop in Skagway does not automatically include Haines. You would need a separate ferry trip or an excursion that includes transportation.
Before booking an independent ferry outing, compare both crossings with your ship’s port hours. Leave a generous buffer before the ship’s all-aboard time.
For detailed arrival advice, transportation options, and accessibility information, read our Haines cruise port guide.
Practical Tips for Planning Your Trip to Haines
Confirm your transportation before building the rest of your itinerary. Ferry schedules and regional flight connections can determine your arrival and departure dates.
Book in the Right Order
We recommend this sequence:
- Check transportation for both directions. Confirm your return journey before booking the outbound trip.
- Reserve the space you need. Include vehicle space, a ferry cabin, or regional flights.
- Book accommodation around confirmed dates. Check cancellation policies in case your travel plans change.
- Arrange local transportation. Confirm pickup at your specific airport, ferry terminal, or dock.
For a one-way trip, check how your next destination connects with Haines. Avoid assuming that every route operates daily.
Leave Time Between Connections
Weather can affect flights and ferries. Road delays and border crossings can also change your arrival time.
Avoid scheduling an important connection immediately after arriving in Juneau or Haines. For expensive onward flights, consider an overnight buffer.
Keep your operators’ contact details and booking confirmations available offline. Recheck schedules and service notices before departure.
Decide If You Need a Vehicle
For a short visit focused on downtown and Fort Seward, you can explore on foot after reaching town.
For trips beyond downtown, plan transportation around the places you want to visit. Compare a rental car with tours that include pickup.
If you’re arriving without a vehicle, arrange your airport or AMHS terminal transfer separately. A walkable downtown does not mean every arrival point is within walking distance.
Compare the Total Travel Cost
Look beyond the ticket price. Include luggage fees, transfers, meals, accommodation, fuel, and vehicle transportation where applicable.
A lower fare may require an extra hotel night or a rental car. Compare the complete journey before choosing your route.
Final Thoughts on Getting to Haines
Driving or taking the Alaska Marine Highway makes sense if you’re bringing a vehicle. For a visit without a car, compare flights through Juneau with passenger ferry options.
We enjoyed having our camper truck for a longer stay. The fast ferry from Skagway also worked well for a shorter visit.
Start with your arrival and departure dates, then build your plans around confirmed transportation. Check your arrival location and arrange any necessary pickup.
Once you’ve chosen your route, our Haines travel guide will help you plan your stay.
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