The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) is setting up new protocols during the pandemic.
When traveling on the mainline ferries Kennicott, Matanuska and Tustamena, all passengers (older than two years old) must provide a negative COVID-19 test within three days of sailing. On those vessels, masks must be worn except when smoking or eating. The release noted that accommodations would be made for passengers unable to wear a face covering due to a medical condition.
Disembarking at port calls will not be allowed, the release said. Passengers may only go ashore at their destination.
Social distancing practices will be in effect.
In addition: All passengers on the day vessels LeConte and Lituya must complete a Passenger Screening Form before boarding and respond “no” to all questions. Travel Declaration Form
All passengers boarding in Bellingham, Washington must complete the mandatory State of Alaska Travel Declaration Form and provide these to AMHS crew at boarding.
Last week the state shut down the Tustumena following a crew member’s positive test at Dutch Harbor.
Read full feature article here: New COVID-19 safeguards in place for Alaska ferry passengers and crew