Northmole

Thanks everyone for being so helpful! I just had a question. Several people have mentioned the ferry from Whittier to Valdez. Is that THE way to go? My guidebook just describes the highway route? We are renting a car. Plan to spend 2+ nights in Homer and 2-3 in Seward or Valdez. What is the difference between Valdez vs. Seward for activities etc. in anyones honest opinion. We don't mind the driving if time allows, and really want to see wildlife and scenery. Thanks again!!!

dwooddon

I can't give you any info re the ferry, however, many posters in the past have indicated that most Alaskan Rental Car agencies do not allow their cars to be taken on the ferry. You might want to check that out before you decide.

Valdez is a long drive from Seward or Homer. If I only had that amount of time, I would stay in the Seward and Homer area. Much of the scenery on the drive is spectacular but so is the scenery in the Seward/Homer area. I've only been to Valdez once and have been to Seward and Homer several times so I may have missed something in Valdez. However, as a town, I don't like Valdez as well as the others. Since that is a matter of personal preference, I'm sure you'll find people who disagree with me.

Wildlife will probably not be a big issue along the road, no matter which route you choose. I've actually seen more wildlife along the roads around Anchorage than in any of these other areas. My best experience seeing wildlife has been on the Kenai Fjords boat tour from Seward.

repete

I might be wrong, but I think the ``no cars on the ferry is old advice'' that was not enforced and never applied to all Alaska car rental companies.

The Whittier ferry suggestion isn't an either/or proposition.

By taking the ferry one way and the road (from Valdez to Anchorage) the other, you are making a wonderfully diverse loop that gives you a great sampling of Alaska. For example, you see tidewater glaciers from the boat, but can walk to an alpine glacier from the road. Or you see the mountains from sea level on the ferry, but travel over a mountain pass on the road -- all on the same loop.

Plus, the value-to-expense ratio of doing this loop makes it one of the best relatively cheap adventures in the state.

As for Seward vs. Valdez, Seward has better opportunities in my book. Valdez has nothing like the Sealife Center and the downtown in Seward has a few more things to offer. You've also got a better choice of excursions from Seward.

Pat2003

I agree about chosing Seward on this trip. However, if you are a hiker and planning on spending at least a few days in one place then Valdez has more hiking opportunities. Valdez town maybe is not very charming but, if not fogged in and rained in, it has unbelivably gorgeous setting. If you decide to go to Valdez then take a ferry. While in Valdez you have to find time to visit not only the main building of the museum but its annex. Another small museum is located in the airport. The last one is small gem although rearly visited. It introduces you to native culture, history and art.

BudgetQueen

Valdez requires time, as mentioned the best option here is the loop, ferry one way with the Glenn and Richardson Highways. 2 days isn't enough in my opinion. So I would suggest Seward and Homer, enjoy those areas with plenty of their excellent touring options.

BudgetQueen

The car rental "ban" was a big rumor begining season last year. I took a car over with no problems/or restrictions.