The Alaska Class Ferry project is the product of technical evaluations and public input gathered from past AMHS ferry acquisition projects. The Alaska Class Ferry project is in alignment with current DOT&PF strategic plans.
AMHS is working in coordination with other DOT&PF divisions to optimize Alaska transportation infrastructure. As AMHS begins the replacement of its existing vessels, the Alaska Class Ferries will support ongoing improvements in Alaska's transportation system.
Currently the three oldest vessels - those scheduled for retirement - generally operate on intermediate-length routes within inside-waters. The Alaska Class Ferries will complement current fleet capabilities while enhancing the ability of AMHS to serve existing and future routes. Routes being considered for these vessels do not include those that require overnight accommodations. Instead, they will serve shorter routes thus freeing up the remainder of the fleet to run the longer routes more efficiently.