So... Emily has never been to Alaska, and loves hiking and camping. While I was at the brew pub yesterday I was talking with a guy who just returned from a summer of fishing out of Sitka. He said he took the ferry back from Alaska. It's a three day trip to Sitka (but goes clear to the start of the Alutians(sp?), and he said (at least to Sitka) it was $200/person and $200/vehicle (i.e., you can take your own car). The have bunk rooms, or you can sleep in your own tent on deck, or in your vehicle. And because it's from America to America, no customs type hassles.
So... If planning begins now, this should be affordable.
Anyone interested in a boat/road trip to Denali N.P. next summer?
Another affordable option