Arrive by Ferry to Nantucket

Take a scenic ferry ride to Nantucket with daily fast and traditional ferry services from Cape Cod and seasonal ferry routes from New York and New Jersey

Traveling by ferry is one of the most scenic and popular ways to reach Nantucket Island. Daily ferry service operates from Cape Cod with both fast passenger ferries and traditional ferries that carry vehicles. Seasonal ferry routes from New York and New Jersey provide additional travel options during the warmer months, making it easy for visitors to arrive by boat and enjoy the journey across Nantucket Sound. Nantucket also has marinas and moorings for private boats.

SeaStreak

Skip the Cape traffic by riding with Seastreak! High-speed ferry services connect New Bedford to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. Spacious seating, an open-air top deck, and valet services are just a few of the many amenities offered.

Hy-Line Cruises

Travel to Nantucket with Hy-Line Cruises, offering high-speed passenger ferry service from Hyannis in about one hour. With frequent departures and easy boarding, it’s one of the fastest, most convenient ways to reach the island.

Steamship Authority

The Steamship Authority connects Cape Cod to Nantucket with traditional and high-speed ferries from Hyannis. The only ferry carrying vehicles, it offers year-round service, frequent departures, and a reliable way to reach the island.

Nantucket Boat Basin

Nantucket Boat Basin is a full-service marina in Nantucket Harbor, offering 240 slips, concierge services, and luxury amenities. Located steps from downtown, it’s the premier destination for boaters seeking convenience and elevated island access.

Nantucket Moorings

Nantucket Moorings offers over 100 moorings in Nantucket Harbor for boats up to 85 feet, with advance reservations and seasonal availability. Conveniently located with launch access to town, it provides a flexible and reliable option for visiting boaters.

Anderson's Stillwater Moorings

A full service mooring company, owned and operated by Matthew C. Anderson. With over 15 years experience in the mooring industry, we provide the boat owner with the stress-free assurance that their vessel is safe and secure. Mooring systems are designed and built to meet or exceed the Town of Nantucket’s chapter 137 bylaws.

Departure Points

Travel Time

Hight-speed ferry: ~1 hour

Traditional ferry: ~2 hr 15 min

Travel Tips

Ferries to Nantucket are extremely popular in summer and during major island events. Reservations for both passengers and vehicles can sell out quickly, especially on weekends. Booking tickets well in advance helps ensure you get the sailing time you want. If your schedule allows, midweek sailings are often less crowded than Friday and Sunday departures, especially during peak travel months.

Insider Tips

Arrive 30–45 minutes early
Morning departures are smoother
Book return trips in advance

Parking & Arrival

limited Parking available at terminals
Reserve ahead in peak season
Allow extra time for boarding

Parking on Nantucket is extremely limited, especially in town during peak season. Most visitors leave their car on the mainland and explore the island by bike, shuttle, or on foot.

If bringing a vehicle, reserve ferry space well in advance and plan for limited parking upon arrival.