Day trip from Skagway on ferry

Question

We have 6 hours in Skagway after an excursion before we have to be back on ship. Is it feasible to ride the fast ferry to Haines, rent a car to explore for a few hours and ride it back to Skagway?

Answer

Good question. Short answer: yes, it’s *technically feasible* to take the fast ferry from Skagway to Haines, rent a car there, explore for a few hours, and then return—but there are some important constraints and risks to be aware of. Whether it's a practical plan depends a lot on timing, your priorities, and how tightly your ship’s schedule is synced with the ferry.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of considerations, logistics, and recommendations:

Ferry Logistics and Timing

The Haines–Skagway Fast Ferry operates in summer (May–September).
The trip takes about 45 minutes one way.
Because it's passenger-only (no vehicles allowed), you cannot bring a car with you.
You’ll likely need to reserve ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak cruise season, since demand from cruise passengers is high.
There is some risk: people on forums have reported tight turnarounds. For example: > “It takes about 45 minutes each way … you just have to properly allow for time.”

Car Rental in Haines

You *can* rent a car in Haines — for example, via Alaska AWD Car Rentals / Captain’s Choice Motel.
There’s also Lynn View Lodge in Haines that offers AWD vehicles (e.g., Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5) for rental.
Because your window is only ~6 hours, you’ll need to be very efficient to pick up a car, drive to a few sites, and then return in time for the ferry back. Any delays—traffic, car availability, or ferry schedule changes—could be risky.

Things to Do in Haines (in a Few Hours)

If you successfully pull off the day trip, here are good spots to hit on a quick drive or walk:

The American Bald Eagle Foundation & Raptor Center — great wildlife and nature exhibits.
Fort William H. Seward — historic military site, very walkable from downtown.
Hammer Museum — it's quirky, local, and very small, so perfect for a quick stop.
Sheldon Museum — covers local history, Tlingit culture, and early settlement.
If you have a car: a short drive on Haines Highway or to Chilkat State Park for nature views.

Risks / Downsides to Consider

Time pressure: With only 6 hours, you may feel rushed, especially factoring in ferry boarding, car pick-up/drop-off, and walking or driving to attractions.
Ferry delays: Weather can affect ferry operations; depending on conditions, schedules could change or cancellations could happen.
Rental logistics: The time it takes to check in, get the car, and return it may eat into your sightseeing window significantly.
Traffic / local logistics: While Haines is a small town, navigating unfamiliar roads or finding parking can add time.
Return risk: If your return ferry is missed, it could be very problematic—especially if your ship departure is tight. As one traveler noted: “It was an hour late getting back and the ship left right after we got off …”

Alternatives to Consider

Use the ferry for a straight sightseeing trip without renting a car — walk around downtown Haines, visit the museums, and soak in the scenery. Much of Haines’ charm is walkable.
Take a guided tour once you arrive — there are half-day tours in Haines (e.g., wildlife, cultural) that maximize your limited time.
If your ship's schedule allows, spend more time in Haines instead of just 6 hours — that way, you can do a more relaxed drive or longer tour.

Day trip from Skagway on ferry

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