On Monday, the Alaska Marine Highway System released its ferry schedule. The M/V Tustumena will be sailing five times this summer between Homer and Unalaska.
City Manager Erin Reinders said that Unalaska has identified support for the state's ferry system as a key legislative priority and of the upmost importance to the community.
"Although we hoped for two times a month, having service once a month from May to September is certainly better than some had feared," said Reinders. "We are already experiencing challenges with air transportation. These five sailings provide a valuable transportation option for Unalaska and its citizens. Alaska's Ferry System provides a cost-effective way for community members to travel and individuals or groups to ship goods and materials."
A ticket between Dutch Harbor and Homer costs $406. The Tustumena also makes stops in Kodiak, Chignik, Sand Point, King Cove, Cold Bay, False Pass, and Akutan along the route.
On Tuesday, Alaska House Majority leadership sent a letter to Gov. Mike Dunleavy's administration requesting more support for the Alaska Marine Highway System. The letter was signed by several representatives, including Unalaska's State Representative Bryce Edgmon.
The first sailing is May 9.
An earlier version of this story gave the wrong dates for the M/V Tustumena's sailings.