Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price to ride the Danny J?
Prices for 2025:
Lunch boat tickets are $70 per person.
A $10 discount is available on the noon ferry for children under 13.
Children ages 3 and under are no charge.
Dinner boat tickets are $55 per person.
Children ages 3 and under are no charge.
How long does it take to drive from Anchorage to Homer?
The trip is about 220 miles. Please allow 5-6 hours, as you may wish to stop to take pictures, or get a bite to eat. Traffic is often slow moving as tourists take their time to enjoy the views, or because of road construction. Once in Homer, please allow 30 minutes travel time to drive to the Homer Spit, find parking, and stop by the kiosk to pick up your tickets!
Where and when do we check in?
Our kiosk is located on the Homer Spit, about 3.8 miles along the Spit Road, on the left side. We are a very small orange building located next door to Bald Mountain Air. You must pick up your tickets prior to boarding!! Check-in at our kiosk no later than 11:30 for noon departure; no later than 4:30 for 5pm departure.
Where do I park on the Homer Spit?
FREE public parking is located in several areas on the Homer Spit. Once you pass the “Fishing Hole” on your left as you head toward the end of the Spit, there is a large gravel parking lot that you can use. Additionally, closer to the end of the Spit on the right hand side of the road is a gravel parking area adjacent to the Seafarers Memorial. Our kiosk is located between these two lots. Most gravel parking areas are FREE unless otherwise marked. Pay parking is available at the top of each boat ramp.
DO NOT park across the street from our kiosk in the 3 hour customer parking.
Will I get seasick on the Danny J?
People rarely get seasick on the 45 minute ride aboard the Danny J.
Is the trip appropriate for young children?
Kids are welcome in Halibut Cove but do require adult supervision at all times. Because we are located on the water, children are required to wear life vests while on the boat as well as during their visit to the island. The boardwalks and trails are easy for young kids to manage and the boardwalks easily accommodate strollers. It is important, for the safety of the children, that adults stay with them at all times while on the boat as well as on the island.
Are dogs welcome?
Yes! Dogs are welcome at no charge but must be leashed at all times and cannot be in the restaurant. However, they are welcome to join you at your table at our outdoor covered seating area.
How big is the Danny J and how many passengers can you carry?
The Danny J is a 42 ft. converted conventional-style fishing boat which can hold up to 28 passengers plus 3 crew. Regulations for passenger load are strictly adhered to. A classic wooden boat, the Danny J offers an open deck (see photos on our website under the Danny J Ferry tab) with bench seating and a small cabin to the rear of the wheelhouse. Many passengers stand along the rail for the best possible viewing of the bay, its wildlife, and the surrounding area.
Is there indoor seating on the boat?
There is limited indoor seating. Most visitors prefer to ride on deck where they can enjoy the scenic trip across the bay. Please dress in warm layered clothing and bring a raincoat to be prepared for all weather! We do have rain ponchos on board, which we are happy to supply. We sail, rain or shine! Unfortunately, we are unable to refund you if you choose not to go in rainy weather.
What time does the Danny J depart and return to Homer?
The noon boat leaves Homer at 12:00, departs Halibut Cove at 4 pm and returns to Homer between 4:45 and 5:00. The 5 pm boat leaves Homer at 5:00, departs Halibut Cove at 9 pm and returns to Homer between 9:45 and 10:00. The transit time is 45 minutes to an hour from Homer to Halibut Cove.
How should I dress?
Wear warm, layered, casual clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Rubber boots are not needed. A raincoat or windbreaker is recommended – even on sunny days the ride across Kachemak Bay can be chilly, and we sail, rain or shine! Attire at The Saltry is casual.
Is it difficult to get on and off the boat?
Most people have no difficulty getting on and off the boat. The ramps to the dock can become quite steep at low tides, so if you have specific concerns about someone in your group who might have trouble, please call or email for more information.
Can I ride the Danny J ferry but not eat at The Saltry?
The Danny J is reserved for guests of The Saltry, as it is the main source of transportation to the restaurant.
What is there to do while I’m in Halibut Cove?
A visit to the Boardwalk at Halibut Cove affords a glimpse into life in our small picturesque community where there are no cars and residents travel on foot or by skiff. Most guests enjoy wandering along the half mile of scenic boardwalks, taking an easy hike along the island trails and exploring the beach. The views are breathtaking and you can often see eagles, sea otters, and seals. Of course, you will also enjoy lunch or dinner at The Saltry, overlooking Halibut Cove.
What are the hours for The Saltry?
The Saltry Restaurant,and boardwalks are open 1:00 pm –9:00 pm.
Lunch is served from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm.
Intermezzo is available for private boaters and renters from 3:00pm to 5:00 pm with soup, appetizers, desserts, and drinks available.
Dinner service begins at 6:00.
Can I hike on the state park trails?
Ismailoff Island does not have access to the hiking trails in Kachemak Bay State Park. The Danny J does not provide transportation to the state park.
Does The Saltry have a children’s menu?
We do not have a children’s menu. The chef will usually be able to prepare pasta with parmesan for kids who can’t find anything yummy on the menu.
Can you accommodate special dietary requests?
Within our ability (please keep in mind that The Saltry is a small, unique restaurant in a somewhat remote location!) we will try to accommodate special requests. We do have vegetarian and vegan options and can prepare gluten free options, such as grilled fish with salad or vegetables.
What if I have food allergies?
While every effort can be made to accommodate allergies, cross contamination is always a possibility. Please contact us ahead of time for specific information as to the type and severity of the allergy.
