Moorage guide

Transient Moorage in Alaska: A Visiting Boater's Guide

Last updated November 2, 2026

Transient moorage is short-term space for visiting boats, from one night to a few weeks. In Alaska's city-run harbors, it's usually handled by the harbormaster's office, which assigns space based on what's open that day. Calling ahead, arriving prepared to raft up, and following harbor rules make it go smoothly.

AK Harbors does not publish moorage rates, fees or availability. They change, and each harbor sets its own. Always confirm details directly with the harbor office before you go.

How does transient moorage work in Alaska harbors?

Most Alaska small-boat harbors are owned by cities or boroughs. Visiting boats contact the harbor office, receive a slip or space along a transient float, and pay a daily or multi-day fee based on vessel length. Space may be a dedicated transient float or a permanent tenant's empty stall.

• Transient floats: Long floats where visiting boats tie up side-to and often raft together.
• Hot berthing: Many harbors assign visitors to stalls whose permanent tenants are away. If the tenant returns, you may be asked to move, so stay reachable.
• Rafting: In busy periods, boats tie alongside each other. Expect it, carry enough fenders and lines, and be courteous crossing other decks.

Step by step: arriving at a harbor

1. Call ahead. Check the harbor's website and call or radio the office before arrival. Ask about available space, where to tie up, and current rules.
2. Monitor the radio. Many harbor offices monitor VHF Channel 16 and use a working channel for traffic. Check the harbor's published channel and office hours.
3. Prepare to dock. Rig fenders and lines on both sides; the harbor may change your assignment at the last minute.
4. Register and pay. Check in at the office or through its posted process soon after arriving. Have vessel documentation or state registration and insurance information handy, as some harbors ask for proof.
5. Learn the rules. Ask about shore power, water, waste oil disposal, fish cleaning stations, pumpout, quiet hours and any restricted floats reserved for commercial vessels.

What to bring for Alaska transient moorage

Harbor etiquette

• Slow down. Observe no-wake zones inside harbors. Your wake can damage boats and injure people working on deck.
• Respect commercial fishermen. Many Alaska harbors are working harbors. Keep clear of fuel docks, grids and hoists unless you're using them, and don't block floats used to offload catch.
• Ask before rafting. If you need to tie alongside, ask first. When crossing another boat, walk across the foredeck rather than the cockpit and keep it quick.
• Keep the float clear. Coil lines, stow hoses and keep gear off the walkway.
• No discharge. Use pumpouts or shore facilities. Dispose of waste oil, batteries and fish waste only at designated sites.

Permanent moorage and waitlists

Many Alaska harbors have waitlists for permanent stalls, especially for popular sizes. Waitlist rules, fees and the length of the wait vary by harbor and can be long. If you're planning to keep a boat in Alaska, contact the harbor office early, ask how the waitlist works, and consider transient or seasonal options in the meantime.

Seasonal changes to services

Services often change with the season. In winter, water may be shut off on floats to prevent freezing, some fuel docks shorten their hours, and snow and ice make floats slippery. Owners of boats left in the water are responsible for keeping them afloat, which includes clearing heavy snow and keeping bilge pumps and batteries working. See launching and boating seasons for more.