Living in Alaska we have been on the marine highway system many times. Our move to Alaska was on a large ferry--we call them Blue Canoes. There are private rooms and an entire level for vehicles. The food is good--cafeteria style and much jostling for the front row seats. There are plenty of quilt/fabric shops throughout the state. Any time of the year bring jackets or sweaters. One thing to remember--every road deadends except those going in and out of Canada. So, you will doing lots of backtracking.