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Advice for Adventurers

Plan Ahead Seasoned world travelers and first-time visitors alike will be best served by planning ahead yet staying flexible. Make advance reservations for transportation, lodging and tours whenever possible. However, be prepared to make changes depending on weather, tides, and flying and boating conditions. You'll soon find that a trip to Kodiak means adjusting to the rhythms of nature.

M/V Tustumena Tom Watson

Getting to Alaska

-Driving to Alaska
-Misc. Alaska Trivia

Getting to Kodiak

By Sea

The Alaska Marine Highway System provides passenger and vehicle service to Kodiak and Port Lions aboard the M/V Tustumena from either Seward or Homer. Staterooms, a full-service dining room, solarium and public shower are available. Make your reservations well in advance, particularly if you are booking passage for a vehicle. For reservations, see the ferry office listing under Transportation.

 

Getting Around

By Air
Two commercial air carriers serve Kodiak from Anchorage, a short one hour flight from the mainland. Air schedules vary by season, ranging from five to ten flights daily. See airline listings for reservations. Flying is second nature in Kodiak. Scheduled air service is available from Kodiak to Akhiok, Karluk, Larsen Bay, Old Harbor, Ouzinkie, and Port Lions. Air taxis whisk visitors to remote locations for backcountry adventures or scenic flightseeing excursions.

By Boat
A fleet of charter boats is available for fishing, hunting and sight-seeing excursions. Several charter boats offer extended trips with on-board accommodations.

Charter Boats

On the Road System
Several local and national car rental agencies are located at the Kodiak State Airport and downtown Kodiak. You can also bring your own vehicle to Kodiak aboard the M/V Tustumena. Most roads outside the City of Kodiak are unpaved, improved gravel roads suitable for ordinary vehicles. Several roads require four-wheel drive utility vehicles. Check road conditions with the Alaska Department of Transportation or the Kodiak Police station before venturing out.

Car Rentals

Visitor Information Center

Stop by the Kodiak Visitor Information Center for information, advice and referrals to help make the most of your time in Kodiak. Located at 100 Marine Way, the Visitor Information Center is open seven days a week from June 15 - September 15 (Mon. - Fri) 8:00 am - 5:00 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday hours vary according to ferry schedule). Fall, winter, spring operating schedule is Monday -Friday 8:00 am - noon & 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

What to Wear & Bring

Comfort is the only dress code in Kodiak. Dress in layers so you can easily adapt to Kodiak's changing maritime climate. Start with a lightweight shirt, a sweatshirt or sweater and a lightweight, weatherproof jacket. Depending on weather conditions, you can put on or peel off layers. Rain gear and waterproof footwear will probably come in handy. In the winter, add a down or fiberfill jacket and other cold weather gear.

Local outfitters and sporting goods stores offer expert advice on gear and equipment to prepare for your backcountry trip. Bring your camera, binoculars or spotting scopes. Film and processing services are available in Kodiak.

If you have any travel questions please feel free to contact us here at the Kodiak Island Convention and Visitors Bureau.