9. Riding America's LONGEST FERRY to Alaska!

[@nonnisusu3968]

I have been waiting for this episode. I was born and raised in Ketchikan. Our lives revolved around the ferry schedule. The ferry was our “school bus” for out of town games and competitions. I still miss the sunsets at the beach when the sun goes behind the mountains.

[@DownieLive]

Sounds great!

[@mikalbrown3227]

How much did you have to play to travel like that?

[@davidrle23]

Are the people of Ketchikan more friendly towards those who come off the ferry than cruise ships? When we visited by cruise we were met by locals swearing at us and graffiti saying “go home tourists”. In all my travels across the entire USA this was where I felt most unwelcome. I get that the influx of cruise visitors must be a nightmare but I’d have thought the community was thankful for the money being spent. Am I wrong?

[@dustinfaulkner5970]

I remember flying into Ketchikan and was blown away at how the place changed after the cruise ships left

[@bobfitzsimmons3490]

Great ferry ride. I’m from the Wack. Been to AK a bunch of times by road and cruise. Always talked about the INSIDE on the ferry From Bellingham. See it every once in a while when it passes Point Roberts. The way the ship was a Rockin’ I’m thinking it spends more than a little outside however. Have you considered doing the White Pass and Yukon ? I would appreciate an approximate date (time of the yr) for this trip.

[@nestorobrien5719]

Hey I finally found the video, I'm the terminal agent in Bellingham you checked in with! We don't always get to take the ferry ourselves, so its really cool to see it from the passenger perspective!

[@DownieLive]

Oh so cool! Thanks again for the upgrade!

[@MrAtvcrash]

Just moved to Seattle and remembered Downie doing this ferry ride. Sad to see they got rid of the route. Still thinking about making the trip to Skagway then drive back.

[@joebudi5136]

​@@MrAtvcrash The boat is no more?

[@MrAtvcrash]

@joebudi5136 Sadly, they discontinued the route. They say due to staffing issues so maybe some year it will come back, but I doubt it.

[@joebudi5136]

@@MrAtvcrash So you can't bypass Canada to get to alaska?

[@graciel3725]

I worked for AMHS in the purchasing department when the Kennicott was purchased. It came from the east coast thru the Panama Canal. That year it had been very dry in Panama. We had to pay over $100,000 to have water pumped into the canal so it was deep enough! It was really something! I remember ordering so many supplies for the initial stock of the gift shop. I really miss that job, and I miss Alaska. It will always hold a huge chunk of my heart.

[@marknc9616]

My family took an Alaskan cruise in 1999. We left from North Carolina. I suggested we eat a breakfast at home because we had a long day of travel ahead of us. We did. On the plane from Charlotte to Minneapolis Saint Paul we went back a time zone and were served breakfast. We got to MSP. I suggested we eat a lunch there because we still had a long trip ahead of us. We did. On the flight from MSP to Vancouver, BC we went back another time zone and were served lunch. Then we got to Vancouver and caught our ship. The ship's crew said that because we had had a long day of travel they had a nice big dinner ready for us. That was five meals in one day for us.

[@ShelPerk]

My parents were on this ferry with you and chatted with you guys. They said you were really nice to talk to! We're watching this together right now. (Bob & Angie with LightShine Ministries in Alaska)

[@DownieLive]

Oh amazing! Hi Bob and Angie!

[@ShelPerk]

My Dad's at 08:56

[@ShelPerk]

@@DownieLive they both say "hi!!!"

[@pastelskies8466]

@@DownieLive Love Kate's artwork on your episodes postcards however, she may want to lave a blank area in the upper right corner for stamps. Just sayin'.

[@kimberlyrose01]

@@pastelskies8466 The stamp doesn't go on the side with the artwork. The message, address, and stamp all go on the blank back side.

[@all.day.day-dreamer]

My Mom lived and passed away in Dec of 2000 in Ketchikan Alaska at age the very young age of 54. Her name was Frona Gene. The same age I am today. She loved it there and quickly made friends with many of the locals. She lived in one of the apartment blocks in the downtown area I believe. She loved to fish and often did so at the docks. I never understood why my Mom ended up in Ketchikan Alaska with my Brother. I asked him once and he simply said that when she was 21 years old, she had visited Ketchikan in 1965 or 66 and fell in love with the town. She explained to me over the phone it was where she wanted to spend the remainder of her life. Thanks for sharing the video. As you guys walked around Ketchikan, it was easy for me to imagine her perhaps tracing some of the same foot steps as you guys did. She spoke very highly of the beauty there in Ketchikan and of Alaska.

[@saltyaussie7702]

Your mum found a place she connected with & was lucky enough in fulling her dream. Respect 🙏

[@rafehr1378]

[@triciac4240]

Such a heartfelt story. Thank you so very much for sharing it with us. It lives again within us now. May God Bless.

[@crownviclx2000]

Love this story ❤️ RIP Frona 🙏

[@freewill1114]

I can feel how you miss your mom, after losing her at such a young age. God bless; it does get less painful over time.

[@elsebethlind1076]

I am Danish and spend many years working on oil tankers and cargo ships! Later tour guide in the world. I never had the urge to travel anywhere else since I have been to more than 100 countries. Now I want to do this ferry sail. Visited Alaska many times. This looks so wonderful!

[@DownieLive]

Thanks for sharing!

[@tennessee195]

The fact I have had a rough few days and I’m binging this series. Your happiness through everything is just radiating and making my day better. Thank you.

[@DownieLive]

You got this, Zachary! I hope your week improves.

[@crunchybro123]

21:00 spot on I believe, a lot of sickness in a plane or boat comes from confusion as you feel rocking and swaying but your eyes see nothing related to it. Stepping outside does help in many cases

[@comfortouch]

This is awesome, I'm going to have to look into taking the ferry. I used to work for a cruise line, here's my advice to people who get motion sick: 1. If you can't be on the deck getting fresh air, then make sure you get the 'discount' cabins close to the water line. The motion of the ship is at its least at that point. The further away from the water line, the greater the movement. 2. If you do Not get motion sick, do Not take Dramamine, it will make you sick. If you do get motion sick, take 1 pill, 8-12 hours BEFORE you board the ship, and another when you board, then as needed. Slowly get it into your system, if you don't it's a shock that can make you even sicker. 3. Get anti-nausea pills from your MD before you go on the trip. These will likely be more helpful than motion sickness treatments. 4. Stay away from dairy products, like heavy creamer in your coffee or chocolate milk, also stay away from anything oily like chips. Take snacks with you that will settle your tummy like Saltines crackers. Saltines will absorb excess stomach acid, settling the churning. Hope these tips help whomever is reading. Happy sailing!

[@comfortouch]

BTW, a fun game to play with your friends/family when you get onboard is 'Which passenger is going to barf first'? I guarantee it'll be the person eating a 'greasy' anything; like a fast food breakfast, or doughnut and Starbucks.

[@danielcurren2119]

If I'm not mistaken, ginger helps too

[@aSoldiersGirlieGirl]

Dramamine won’t make you sick. If anything, sleepy. I am a long time constant nausea sufferer from a gastrointestinal disease and have taken Dramamine on and off for breakthrough nausea when I don’t want the extra sleepiness from my prescription nausea meds. But, it is often taken as a precaution, therefore won’t make you sick if you’re not experiencing motion sickness. My best advice is to take nausea meds even if you’re not motion sick because chasing that once it begins is tough to get on top of and ahead of. Benedryl can also be used for nausea as well as some anxiety medication(of course prescribed by your doctor). In my experience, non of the holistic things help me. Ginger, SeaBands, the “watch” liking gadgets, natural remedies….none of that helps me. But, to each their own.

[@adimeter]

That's pretty much what the attendant told me to d on my cruise. I was only way to the toilet. She stopped me and told me to go on the top deck and stare at the horizon. I did it and that helped control my nausea.

[@christopheroliver7589]

I didn't want this 30 minute episode to end. I wasn't even along on this ferry trip with you guys; but I had a fun time watching all of your footage in this video. Thank you, Warwick and Matt, for all of the hard work on this Season 2 series. Your footage is really interesting and I know I've learned a great deal. Keep up the excellent work everyone!

[@christopheroliver7589]

And Happy Canadian Thanksgiving to you and yours, Michael. Have a blessed day!

[@AverytheCubanAmerican]

Whittier served as an Army facility and protected the state during WWII, so they built a pretty long rail tunnel for it (shared with cars since 2000) Whittier faced the second most powerful earthquake in recorded history back in 1964 with a magnitude of 9.2. It took the lives of 13 people there and five million dollars in damages to government and private property.

[@HM2SGT]

I remember seeing a program about that, the tsunami and an archaeological dig at a gas station where the credit card was still in the addressograph machine as somebody was paying. I think it was a Gulf station, but it’s been quite a while since I saw that. _(edited to correct the business name from golf, ergo The golf discussion digression😄)_

[@HM2SGT]

5 million then is the equivalent of 45, million 2022 dollars

[@paulsuprono7225]

@@HM2SGT Do they golf, in Alaska ? 👍

[@paulsuprono7225]

@@HM2SGT Don't you mean 'Gulf station ?' 😬

[@duncanwallace7760]

I had a great trip on the ferry from Ketchikan to Juneau about 10 years ago. The remoteness of some of the places you pass is astounding, no roads just forests and water.

[@dustinweaver5492]

Love your channel, dude. Love the way you live your life. So pure and genuine. It’s refreshing to see!

[@jameshaury2716]

When it is rough and you are feeling woozy it is always good to be able to see the horizon.

[@Abegweit111]

I was going to say that!! Glad you did. Fresh air and horizon (even a foggy glimpse) Wards off sea sickness.

[@jeannierenton7542]

I live in Vancouver Island & used to take the ferry to Vancouver often as my boyfriend lived there & I would get sea sick so bad which included throwing up & headache & dizziness. I found that standing at the rail helped me so much that I still do this even though I need a cane at times, it’s the fresh air & yes, looking where you’re going that helps😁

[@ginanoble7203]

Being a Gina , and an Aussie I loved travelling along with you. I have sailed around the QueenCharlotte Islands and will never forget the beauty

[@HonestMan112]

This series genuinely felt like a movie. I'm from the UK so I don't see a lot of this kind of stuff. It was great to experience it with you

[@pastelskies8466]

I got a kick out of the rough seas part. They ain't been to Dutch Harbor. lol

[@mtacoustic1]

Took that same ferry from Whittier to Bellingham in 2016. Only had a two-berth windowless room and a communal bath/shower, but all was very clean and I didn't spend much time in the room except to sleep. The food was excellent! Spent most of my time exploring the ship, sitting in the observation deck and in the theater. Lots of interesting passengers, especially those camped out on the deck instead of in a cabin. The enforced relaxation was, well, relaxing!

[@angelabagoyo589]

I grew up in Southeast Alaska and every high school in that region would take the ferry for school trips - imagine hundreds of high schoolers trapped on a boat between 12 hours to 3 days sleeping and hanging out the common areas. Those were the days. Every town in the pan handle except Skagway and Haines needs the ferry system and every year we fear it's going to get defunded and ultimately cut off smaller towns.

[@markw4613]

love that you took the guys along for the final leg of the tour. The guys absolutely deserve it - the editing and production value on your videos is top notch.

[@IchStrickeGerne]

I loved watching your friend from Australia be overwhelmed by the beauty. I’ve lived in Washington State my entire life and am still caught up in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest after 41 years in this area. I’ve had the pleasure of cruising to Alaska 3 times, once with a cruise full of Australians (it was a special tour) and seeing them all be amazed by this part of the map was beautiful and filled my heart with joy.

[@Motivationmighty]

Australia I love it but am scared of those spiders lol they are so big

[@dearydarling]

The editor getting to experience this is so winsome. His enthusiasm and that little boy ear to ear grin is something i hope we all find ways to rediscover in life :)

[@SynchronizorVideos]

Oh man, this was such a trip to watch. I grew up in Ketchikan, and my family would take the Marine Highway anytime we needed to get to other towns like Juneau or Wrangell. As we didn't have much spare money, we would usually "bum it" and bring sleeping bags that we would unroll in one of the lounge areas in the evening. I actually traveled on the Kennicott in 1998 right after it was commissioned; I distinctly remember how it was so clean and fresh compared to the rest of the fleet at that time. It's really interesting to see it now, after 25 years of service. And southeast Alaska in general, man! Just that little clip at 19:19 made me super emotional and nostalgic. It's such beautiful country out there, and I still miss it so much. Even after decades of living down here in the lower 48, I recognized almost everything you showed when you went ashore in Ketchikan. For other viewers, if you ever have the opportunity to visit the Alaska panhandle, don't pass it up. It's beautiful, with lots of culture and history, amazing geography, and a really special temperate rainforest climate. Just be sure to bring a raincoat for the "liquid sunshine".

[@pvdogs2]

Great series!!. That building that Mike pointed to, in Whittier, is a self contained community where everyone lives. It can only be accessed through a tunnel. Peter Santenello did a great video on it. He was granted access to the building, met with the community, etc. Many of the ship captains have access to the building while they are in port. It is a very interesting community.

[@spikesmth]

When I was a kid my family trekked to Alaska, we took the Alaskan train from Anchorage up to Denali Park. It was incredible. Anyone who says everything is bigger in Texas hasn't been to Alaska. Can't wait for the next episode.

[@lynnestamey7272]

I moved out of Alaska in 2006. I drove from Anchorage to Haines to catch the ferry to Bellingham. The ferry was great! I think I paid about $2800 for 2 passenger fares, transport my Explorer and a 4 berth cabin with bathroom. I loved the lounge and the Ranger presentations. It was truly a great trip.

[@lynnestamey7272]

Phillip Banes, I was leaving Alaska permanently and my truck was stuffed. It was better than driving the entire way to Washington state. My sister and I used the trip as a vacation, it was her first time to Alaska so the scenery was beautiful. Same route as the cruise lines. So, yeah, it was money, but yolo!

[@JM-zh6kp]

I am so glad that KZbin algorithmic brought me to this channel!!! Michael turns a 5-day ferry trip into a really exciting experience! What a beautiful wild scenery!! Love the glaciers...so amazing 😮. Great Video. Hi from Rhode Island!! Juan.

[@DownieLive]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@NickGoesFar]

This was an awesome throwback memory trip for me - when I moved from Juneau back down to the lower 48 I took the ferry and, unlike you with a cabin, I actually pitched a tent on the top deck, threw in my air mattress and camped for the 3 day trip south.

[@ednajohnson8771]

That was a awesome trip

[@gblakev]

When I rode the ferry (in 1980) I slept on the floor in one of the lounges. Many people in the lounge slept in the chairs. The whole trip was a party with new friends. And it was great visiting the towns along the way.

[@jamesmulroy4919]

20 years in the Navy you guy's did the right thing by going outside in rough weather.

[@ashleighelizabeth5916]

I've known about the Alaska Marine Hwy for years but this is the first chance I've ever had to see somebody on one of the ferries. You did a great job conveying the experience. I know a lot of people will act like that wasn't rough water but I also know from experience that the video and photos simply do not convey the size of the waves they record. I had to chuckle when I saw that life jacket. If you go in that water you will likely freeze to death long before you would drown even without a life jacket.

[@brianfraser2495]

You get used to the ship's motion and when back on shore, it feels like the ground underfoot is moving.

[@marychristensen7386]

I remember that feeling.

[@robertshelton9881]

I certainly know that feeling from my days on a small cabin cruiser. I also get the same feeling after several days on the train.

[@SilvaDreams]

The fun of just getting your sea legs and then having to get your land legs back🤣

[@IzzyOnTheMove]

I get the same feeling after 4 days on the Canadian. I call it train lag.

[@rustydog1236]

Yeah. The longer cruise the harder it gets. I was just on a 32 day b cruise in the Pacific and when I walk in a straight line here on land, I actually feel like the floor or ground is swelling up in front of me and then falling away. Sometimes I slightly almost trip. Btw I never have gotten sea sick, I've been on more than 40 cruises and many other ships and small boats.

[@tiffanys.willis8053]

I absolutely LOVE your unconventional methods of traveling and seeing things. The ferry method would not have crossed my mind....till now!! Wishing you safe travels and I am already looking forward to the next episode:)

[@DownieLive]

So glad!

[@sail4free1]

@Barry Hoffman -- I've heard that before -- that when a ferry stops, you can get off and hang out as long as you want -- and then continue your adventure when you're ready . . . it's a much better option than any cruise ship . . . and it sounds like the food is better too! :)

[@blackbird5634]

I have hitchhiked over 9K miles around the US and I humbly suggest that you enjoy all the ''nothing'' there is to do on a ferry like this. Look outside, set aside your tablets and phones and absorb the scenery. Read poetry, write letters home, create the narrative of your adventure in those long silences. *I think the running commentary and accompanying videos are great! Keep going! Maybe head south to Argentina next along the Pan-American Highway?

[@colevandooren8368]

It's crazy how random videos can lead to such emotion. I always watch your videos, as I find the train and travel super interesting. I had a dog named Juneau, who passed away a few months ago, actually exactly to this date. He was an all-white German Shepherd, and he was 8, almost 9. My sister named him after Juneau, Alaska. I miss him a lot and that section really re-triggered all my emotions, randomly. Great video as always, Mike. Thanks for reminding me of my boy, he was the best.

[@JimZim]

Michael: "I feel like we just go from one meal to the next." Me: "Welcome to cruise ship life!!!"

[@TomLloyd-18]

. . lol . . . and welcome to retirement

[@nicholasliby8972]

And being in the Navy.

[@mattw919]

@@nicholasliby8972 Coast Guard as well. Working from one meal to the next, definitely get to see how good food helps with moral.

[@craigcampbell1843]

@@mattw919 I was on the Polar Star. It was voted best kitchen afloat in the Coast Guard. I used to love watching them make omelettes in the morning on a flat grill with two spatulas to catch the eggs on both sides as the ship rocked.

[@craigcampbell1843]

@@mattw919 when we went to Alaska we’d catch halibut off the side and the cooks would be more than happy to clean and cook something for us that wasn’t frozen. We also caught fresh mahi-mahi on our way to Hawaii and they made us kangaroo when we were in Australia. We were very lucky to have such great cooks on our ship. They took a lot of pride in what they did.

[@corrieka5419]

Welcome to Alaska! This is a fantastic series. I love your attitude and good humor, and how much you care for your friends and family.

[@DownieLive]

Thank you so much!

[@PopeLoaf]

Watching this series has sparked a need for adventure in me. Im a trucker and pretty much get to be paid to travel the states but now im on a more local route. Ive been to almost every state east of Kansas but I really need to explore the western states. It's not fair they have the most scenic, most iconic American landscapes and my company hasnt sent me there.

[@lisewarner8285]

How much is it ?

[@PopeLoaf]

@@lisewarner8285 I get roughly 76k a year now. Usually company drivers start out around 40-50k/yr.

[@PopeLoaf]

It all depends on the type of truck driver you wanna be. Flatbed and hazmat drivers get paid way more starting out because of more work and hazard pay.

[@betty5064]

We took that ferry from Prince Rupert to Skagway, some years ago. Then took the Rocky Mountaineer train up the Gold Rush trail and a bus into Whitehorse. There, it was the best Canada Day party we have ever seen. Everyone on and off the ferry were marvellous.

[@graciel3725]

Hey Mike! I lived in Juneau and I worked for the AMHS. It was one of my favorite jobs ever!

[@tbudd001]

So, I found the channel about a week ago or so, and I've gone through the last 9 episodes of this Alaska trip, and so far, this video has been my favorite out of the ones I have seen.

[@nadzienka696]

I am older than your mom, and would never go on a fairy or a rocky boat. But you, Michael, make it fun for friends and family to travel like this. I had a ball watching this fairy trip. What an entertainment for me!. I laughed and absorbed everything you said and showed on this video. I am also trying True Earth because of the nice way you describe its use.

[@WhiteRockBoy]

I literally just finished watching Matt survive Navy SEAL training before this video. Matt that was bad ass, watching you complete that, pulling everything and more out of yourself to gain the respect of Richard and Steve was incredible. Much respect Matt and Leon.

[@mkmccoy6929]

Worked up in ketchikan in 1998.... Kool little town ..

[@GlacierPilotGst]

18:30 My buddy Paul in the M/V Liteweight made the show! Took the ferry from Kodiak to Seward in ‘95, got hit with a rouge wave that dumped breakfast all over the place. Going across the Gulf the cars all get chained down to the deck at the 4 corners. Taking water up over the bow, running with all the watertight door shut.. Taking the ferry to/from Kodiak was always an adventure.

[@tiosino]

When I lived in Bellingham, WA...I'd ride my bike past that ferry on my way to work. So many fantasies to take that ferry to Alaska! But you did for me!! Thank you, Mike. My name is Mike, too.

[@jameswatt1391]

Add it to the bucket list Mike. Watching video's is no substitute for the real thing. Mike caught plenty of scenery and so many of the wonderful folks who live along the Wash/BC/Alaska Coasts. It's a pleasure watching from the comfort of your easy chair but the real challenge comes from seeing it first hand. Barf bags are not included... LOL.... Jun/Jul is your best time for cruising the coast with fish boats dotting the coastline along with whale pods around many corners..... Well done Mike giving everyone a taste of our own backyard....

[@lukeroberts649]

"This is almost unfathomable!" "Fathom it my friend." 9:11 Possibly the best line I've heard so far 2023

[@ronahmann6980]

Wow Michael!!! Your adventures are absolutely AMAZING. I love how you don’t take the “every day tourist” takes. Thanks for once again taking us along.

[@DownieLive]

Glad you like them!

[@graciel3725]

I lived 2 miles from Mendenhall Glacier! Great place to go on that rare hot day.

[@MarkTrombly]

I just rewatched this and you made me cry AGAIN! Your videos are always filled with joy and hope and awe. I must admit that you have started to lose me a little bit lately by going on excursions that might be a little bit more expensive than the average person can afford, like flying to the Middle East to go to an F1 race, but you're always so hopeful and being such a sense of awe to everything that you do that you help lighten even the darkest day.

[@Luciferisking512]

I bet Gina was so happy to have some company to ride with her to the glacier

[@MrFrankhdgs]

The ferry may have cost more than a cruise ship, but it sure seems to have been worth it! Mike, I do appreciate how you are always able to take a bad situation and make it fun. I cannot wait for the next episode. As always, thank you for bringing us along!

[@DownieLive]

My pleasure, Frank. It's all in your perspective. :)

[@Tanabegarden]

How much did it cost?

[@rnptenafly]

@@DownieLiveOn a cruise ship the food is included. From the menu board it looks like you pay for each meal?

[@ShutterbugVideo671]

I did an internship in Alaska when I was in college and took the ferry from Bellingham to Haines. I absolutely loved it, even though I was incredibly seasick when we were in the small area of open ocean just before the Inside Passage starts. But the rest of the trip was beautiful, I highly recommend it.

[@BCJerbs]

I'm a born and raised in B.C. Canada and live on Vancouver Island....ive been across Canada a few times and always come back the the island and seeing my province from a boat going to Alaska it's so awesome to hear a fella from Australia to say such wonderful things! Thanks for sharing your adventure with us! Cheers, Kimmers and Jerbs 👍🏼🇨🇦

[@ak-northman726]

I’m so happy you guys got to experience and enjoy the voyage up part of Alaskas coast. Being born and raised here we get used to it and loose sight of the majesty we’re surrounded by. Watching you experience it reawakens the joy of living here.

[@TomLloyd-18]

A spectacular adventure. I loved every minute of this trip. I think the most surprising part is the awesome home-cooked meals. Who Knew? ? ? these 9 episodes have been breathtaking . . . so glad you invited me along.

[@DownieLive]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@marieneu264]

I never want this series to end!!!

[@bcarol2484]

Superb documentary on America. Hope this gets some kind of Award. Makes one proud of their country.

[@williamwinner4234]

I've sailed to Ketch and Juneau and actually been to the real Misty Fjords... I've sailed through the Inside Passage a few times... And I've been within a half mile of a glacier. Watching this brought back a lot of memories.

[@LowLightMike]

8:29 mark: The hunting ship is BC Ferries "Northern Sea Wolf" which works the connector route between Bella Bella and other mid-coast settlements. In the summer, it also does a direct route between Port Hardy and Bella Coola, showcasing magnificent fjord scenery. [ferry nerd, I am....] 22:36 mark: This view shows the Kennicott ferry's internal vehicle elevator. The ramps inside raise and lower vehicles to align with the correct vehicle deck and with the dock on shore. This ship was designed so that heavy equipment could be offloaded, in the event of an earthquake, tsunami, oil spill, or other disaster. The State figured that if it was building a new ferry (year 1998), it should also be able to serve as a disaster response vessel.

[@Hahlen]

Shes also designed with a helipad and tons of extra communication equipment. Those weird duplicate lounges at back stern are designed to be easy to turn into offices. In the event of a disaster (particularly an oil spill) Kennicot is designed to serve as the command ship for the response effort. Her whole layout is so different from every other ship in the fleet.

[@eleanormassaro5195]

Very interesting info!

[@dimitris-arvanitis]

Northern Sea Wolf is a Greek made ship. Used to travel in Greek Islands. An now after a long trip serves Canada.

[@jameswatt1391]

Miss the Queen of the North, the majestic ship she was..... Lived in Bella Bella and it was so nice seeing Waglisla, Dryad Point, Namu, Klemtu, Grenville Channel, Princess Royal Island home of the world famous Kermode Bear (Spirit Bear). Such beautiful scenery the majority of North Americans' will never enjoy up close.... Thanks for bringing us the beautiful sights and sounds!

[@LowLightMike]

@@jameswatt1391 I miss that elegant Queen of the North ship, too. What a beauty.

[@valatina8147]

Lets just take a moment to appreciate all the effort he put into this series! ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉😮😮😮 Edit: thanks for all the likes, like the comment if you like trains

[@DownieLive]

Thanks Valantina! It's a team effort, which is why these guys deserved to come along for the ending.

[@valatina8147]

@@DownieLive Yeah, it was so cool to see yoy finished!

[@dmorgan5180]

@@DownieLive Gotta say this has made me want to do a cross country rail tip even more.

[@marieeiram7061]

One of my favorite KZbin series I’ve seen so far! Much appreciated!!!!

[@martinpenev6750]

Amen to that…and Mike 👍🏻

[@SupremeLeaderKimJong-un]

Exactly, it doesn't hurt to ask and socialize. Because if you open up your shell a little, you might be rewarded. Same can be said about learning other languages. When native speakers see others take the time to learn their languages, they feel appreciated. Socializing helps us better connect with the rest of us who call this planet home

[@Kaithelegoguy]

Thank you Mr Kim jong un. 🙏

[@ginreg21]

I took one of the ferries to Alaska around 1980 with my sister, my great grandmother and her sister. We were on standby for a cabin for the first two nights and it was rough finding somewhere to sleep. When we got into a cabin just like yours it was awesome. We counted bald eagles one day as a part of an organized wildlife group's activity. We watched the movies and spent time enjoying the beauty of Canada and Alaska as we sailed by. We had stored our RV in the hold after driving through Washington and seeing the devastation from the Mt St Helen's eruption. I was 13 at the time and still remember what a great experience it was.

[@purselmer5931]

Wow, that is a fantastic story and memory. You are blessed.

[@SteveH-TN]

I recently discovered your channel. I appreciate your sharing your experiences in general. You have done more in your life than I did in my 74 years of life. In 2011 my wife & I took a cruise to Alaska and learned about the Alaska Highway Ferry system. However I saw the world via 38 years of Active USAF duty. 46 USA States, Thailand, Japan. Guam, UK, Belgium, Netherworlds, Germany, Austria, France +++++ more. I became a Pilot of Gliders with the RAF, Hot Air Balloon KZbin has broadened my life experiences from where ever I am daily.

[@leafbelly]

A new DownieLive video -- the highlight of my week! Such a great series. I had no idea a ferry trip could last so long, but it looks like you all made the most of it. Beautiful scenery and great content as usual.

[@DownieLive]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jackyyuen1939]

this ferry trip seems interesting . Alaska must be a wonderful place for sightseeing. It is so natural and beautiful . Great video.

[@Powell2023]

Favourite episode. Great bunch of guys. Can't wait for the finale

[@arniedeblank9050]

Who knew that the best episode (so far) of Travels by Train would be a boat trip.

[@DownieLive]

Ha! True!

[@FoxyfloofJumps]

This is pretty darn cool. You got to travel a ton, and see so much. Growing that spirit and activating those neurons.

[@TammyTravelsTheWorld]

I took this same trip a few years ago and I was a camper! It was cold and snowing and I spent a lot of time in the cafeteria and forward lounges, but I had a blast. I did Bellingham - Juneau. 3 days. It began to snow right around Ketchikan and was so beautiful. Thanks for sharing your experiences, it brought back a lot of great memories for me.

[@yvr2002rtw]

@DownieLive Perhaps in a future series you should consider crossing the Pacific or Atlantic in a cargo container ship. It would make an interesting journey.

[@jackieknits61]

There are trains in Hawaii. Just saying. You're not done yet

[@tkoonsman]

I have enjoyed your "Travels By Train" series SO much. Please keep things like this coming.

[@DownieLive]

That's the plan!

[@Trektrendy]

Oh man loved this, something fresh and new to KZbin. As always, great video 🔥

[@DownieLive]

Appreciate it, Will!

[@valatina8147]

yo trek!

[@someshbanerjee1638]

@@DownieLive The world needs a crossover video Mike!

[@Invisible_Socks]

I rode on the MV Columbia from Haines to Bellingham stopping in Juneau, Wrangell, Petersburg, Sitka, Ketchikan. It was a great trip I am glad I did it at 23 when I was moving from Alaska to the lower 48

[@dougww1ectebow]

Well, you figured out how to alleviate motion sickness. Fresh air and having a reference point makes a difference. Besides those are wussy waves...lol. I used to work on ships and have been in some really rough seas.

[@kenbrown5449]

The reason it's worse inside during "rough" weather is because you can't see the horizon so your inner ear and your eyes are fighting each other's senses. Some never get over it and some never experience it. I have spent over 20 years at sea and fit squarely in the middle! lol!

[@carlbussett5370]

How interesting! Who would think of taking a Ferry to Alaska, besides Downie Live! Plus all three of you seemed to enjoy the trip and each other, outside of a few episodes of Rolling seas :)

[@linuxman0]

Wow, what an episode! This is living life, man. Thanks for bringing your viewers along with you.

[@Duchess_of_Cadishead]

I have been on a ship 3 times; 1963 & 1975 on route from England to Australia, and 2019 on a cruise to the Great Barrier Reef. Each time we experienced heavy storms, and I loved it.

[@bcrcndr]

Took that ferry from Juneau to Bellingham back in 2011. Amazing journey through coastal Alaska & BC into Washington. Love to do it again sometime. Thank you for bringing us along this amazing journey.

[@tracydean3678]

That was fun, liked seeing the whales and glaciers. I think its great you took your friends / editors along to the start of his journey.

[@BlacqueJacqueShellacque_]

Another trip you've done that is on my list. I was in Bellingham for mountain biking and went down to the water to check it out and discovered this boat. Sounded like such a fun trip that I added it to the list right away. The idea of taking a trip like this without the ritz of a cruise sounds delightful. :D

[@bedriven6836]

This is crazy to see. I did this over ten years ago on the same boat to see Ketchikan AL. Spent a total of four nights in a tent on the deck. Best trip and the best stories I've experienced.

[@frankwaddell7478]

Great episode. Was hoping to see my home town, Prince Rupert, BC. Even though it did not make it, I enjoyed riding along. Cheers.

[@sarahs.6457]

I love how you all are very respectful and edit out any other folks faces at all possible. I love Alaska! My oldest sister was born in Anchorage. It on my bucket list to visit it one day!

[@HELENation]

Seeing people appreciate the beauty of nature always moved me to tears 🥲🥰 I hope one day I'll be able to travel with people like you guys :) This video has reminded me to treasure the privilege that I got to live in this beautiful British Columbia. I should really get my butt off the couch and head out and see more. Thank you Mike ! Happy Thanksgiving! 🧡

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, wow! I recently vlogged my Alaska cruise for KZbin, and it's so cool that we were in such a similar part of the world, yet had completely different experiences - amazing!

[@GlenFair]

Watched your vlogs, very good. The cruise is probably cheaper than the ferry and much more luxurious. The ferry is EXPENSIVE. But I guess if you wanted to get away from everything and do something completely different then the ferry would certainly fit the bill.

[@charleskummerer]

Easily one of the best DownieLive episodes ever, and that says a lot

[@cydkriletich6538]

Wonderful video! For my 68th birthday and to celebrate finishing the surgery and chemo for double breast cancer, my husband took me on a terrific vacation on the Alaskan Railroad. We are also cruisers, and a year later my best friend from high school asked us to go on an Alaskan cruise with her and her husband. It was a very nice cruise, and, of course, the best of company; but, the train vacation was much more inclusive when it came to seeing Alaska. One of my favorite stops was the little town of Talkeetna, and then an 8 hr. bus ride up to Denali, though it was too cloudy to see the mountain. I so enjoyed this video. You guys were so much fun to watch! I’m subscribing now! Thank you!

[@Bigweave74]

I was an AB Helmsman on the Kennicott. Your most narrow spots are Grenville Channel, Bella Bella, Seymore Narrows, and Wrangell narrows, Seymore and Wrangell were the most challenging to steer, but it was a cool experience knowing I was steering a ship through all that.

[@DownieLive]

Very cool!

[@valbard6596]

That was unexpected. I didn’t know there was a ferry to Alaska. So glad most days were good. Being seasick can really ruin a trip.

[@DownieLive]

So true!

[@alexthemtaandr211weatherfa2]

@@DownieLive why didn’t you take a plane ✈️ from Seattle

[@sgt.eclair]

@@alexthemtaandr211weatherfa2 because this is way more interesting

[@ForzaMonkey]

@@alexthemtaandr211weatherfa2 as Sgt. Eclair said, the ferry is more interesting, and for me it would be because you get to enjoy the views and see the wildlife more.

[@keith2o9]

@@alexthemtaandr211weatherfa2 I felt like planes are for those who quickly wanna get from point a to point b in a matter of a few hours. You wouldn't get the views from above. And DownieLive is a train junkie.

[@ganthrithor]

I flew this route in a helicopter once. It took three days (lack of daylight in November, plus weather) and sometimes I think we were closer to the water than you guys were on the deck of the ship :D It was the coolest flying thing I've ever done, I reckon. AK and BC are so pretty. Fun fact: Yakutat actually has a generously-sized airport. It's probably bigger than the town :D

[@TonyAlmeida1]

Those glacier shots from Juneau to the end are breathtaking.

[@MatrixDeception722]

The best parts of 🇺🇸 are the unwoke places where you just find hard working people who go about their business. Contrast that to where I am (nyc) and it’s two completely different worlds. Seeing this videos reinforces what I know in my heart. I’m in the wrong place for the type of person that I am. I gotta get myself together and get outta Dodge.

[@farisle6602]

I went on a ferry from Le Havre, France to Rosslaire, Ireland - got hit by a huge storm and you are exactly right - the only thing that kept me from getting sick was to go up to the top deck, in the wind and the mist. Kept me from feeling worse and the cold, rushing wind was refreshing. Highly recommend the same - get yourself top decks and enjoy.

[@matthewconstantine5015]

You going through that pass on the ferry reminded me of a cruise my wife & I went on around the southern tip of South America. Passing through hundreds upon hundreds of mountainous, forested islands. It's truly amazing. Hoping we can do Alaska in the next couple years.

[@ob1coyote]

That glacier in Juneau was really something to see.

[@tombirkland]

Great episode. I grew up in Anchorage and was fortunate to take the ferry through Southeast twice. It’s such a great trip. I expected the roughest part to be the leg from Yakutat to Whittier. You lucked out on the weather! Looking forward to the Alaska Railroad episode!

[@adimeter]

Beautiful, fun presentation. Reminds me of my cruise to Alaska. The scenery was matchless. The glacier was awe-inspiring. And there were no words for flying over the wilderness in a prop jet watching the animals roam freely. Thank you for the memories.

[@osprey1645]

I love northern Washington and that area the coast line and the islands are so magical. The water and the wildlife. The landscape. I can't explain why I find it so magical.

[@jacklane3368]

I’ve been to Alaska 3 times, but you have made me want to go back.

[@kets4443]

Which parts of the state?

[@jacklane3368]

@@kets4443 2008: My wife and I flew to Anchorage and rented an extended-cab Ford F-150. We drove around the state for 2 weeks. North to Denali and Fairbanks and environs, Hatcher Pass Road, south to Palmer area, down to Whittier, Seward and the rest of the Kenai Peninsula. 3 days in Homer was our fantastic finale. Glaciers galore, many calving impressively. 2014: Celebrity cruise with 10 college friends. Vancouver to Prince William Sound, Icy Strait Point (Hoonah), Juneau, Ketchikan. 2019: Norwegian cruise with my 5 siblings & spouses. Seattle to Juneau, Skagway (& train to Carcross, Yukon), Glacier Bay, Ketchikan, Victoria, BC. Unforgettable wildlife, glaciers, indigenous culture, etc.!

[@mandyellis876]

Alaska is an experience beyond words. I’ve been numerous times and have loved everything about it. For me, it’s like my spiritual home and seeing this makes me really want to go back again soon!

[@suzfindsnyapts]

@@jacklane3368 that trip in the truck sounds ideal