The port facility in Skagway, Alaska, operated by the Alaska Marine Highway System, has been closed indefinitely due to significant structural damage. Consequently, all ferry operations to and from Skagway have been halted. Additionally, the South Klondike Highway, a vital route connecting Whitehorse and Skagway, has been shut down between Carcross, Yukon, and the B.C. border from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. daily following multiple rockslides.

Gabe Strong, the public information officer for the Alaska Marine Highway System, reported that the port’s vehicle bridge and passenger walkway exhibited initial signs of cracking on Thursday. Subsequent monitoring by staff revealed further cracking, leading to the closure of the terminal by Alaska Department of Transportation engineers on Saturday.

In response to the situation, technical personnel and leadership from the Alaska Department of Transportation are en route to Skagway to supervise the emergency response and support local teams. Commercial divers are scheduled to inspect the underwater damage, including the anchor chains, while electricians are in the process of disconnecting the float’s electrical power. The removal of the damaged bridge and walkway is expected to be completed by Wednesday.

An investigation will be conducted to determine the cause of the incident, with further details to be released once assessments are completed. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries. Emphasizing passenger and crew safety as the top priority, Strong affirmed that operations will resume only after a thorough inspection and full security assurance of the facility.

Although the timeline for resuming services remains uncertain, updates will be provided post the completion of the damage assessment. The Alaska Marine Highway System has initiated the process of contacting passengers with existing reservations to facilitate refunds and assist in arranging alternative travel plans through their social media channels.