The Alaska Class Ferry project goal is to acquire multiple new ferries of a single design which will be able to sail reliably within all Alaska inside waters. The Alaska Class Ferry is described in the Design Study Report and Concept Design documents that are posted on the documents page. Follow on design documents such as the Preliminary Design, and Detail Design documents will be posted on the Documents page as they are completed. The Concept/Preliminary Design phase has incorporated stakeholder input. The list below summarizes what will likely be included in the design.

  • Vessel design specifications and plans
  • Length and other dimensions
  • Vessel features necessary to dock at specific terminals
  • Number and type of vehicles the ferry can carry
  • Number of passenger the ferry can carry
  • Safety equipment and features
  • Emissions estimate based on equipment types and sizes
  • Speed estimate based on vessel design
  • Power train make and model
  • Crew and passenger space layout
  • Sea kindliness

Subsequent questions generated once the design of the ferry is complete will be addressed in collaboration with other DOT authorities and will determine:

  • Number of ferries to build
  • Specific routes they will service
  • Sailing schedule
  • Construction location
  • Dates that new ferries will enter service

Ancillary considerations associated with the Marine Highway infrastructure are not covered under the scope of this project.

Alaska Class Ferry Project