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
Photo by: Kat Enter
Nantucket By Boat
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.
Nantucket Ferries
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Departure Points
- Hyannis (main hub)
- New Bedford
- Harwich Port (seasonal)
- NYC & NJ (seasonal)
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.
Nantucket
Events
In One Place
Discover what’s happening
on island this week
Explore Nantucket Beaches
From calm harbor shores to wide ocean beaches, Nantucket offers something for every kind of beach day.
- Calm beaches for families
- Surf beaches
- Sunset spots
- Easy-access beaches near town
Find Your Perfect Beach
View Nantucket Beaches
Photo by Sonja O’Brien
Find Your Perfect Stay
Find the right stay for your trip, from charming inns and boutique hotels to luxury accommodations and vacation rentals.
Nantucket Inns
Charming and intimate, Nantucket inns and bed and breakfasts offer personalized service, historic character, and walkable locations near town and beaches.
Nantucket Hotels
Nantucket hotels provide comfort and convenience with modern amenities, concierge services, and easy access to dining, shopping, and island activities.
Nantucket Luxury
Luxury accommodations offer refined design, exceptional service, and prime locations, from waterfront properties to quiet, elevated retreats.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals provide space, privacy, and flexibility, with homes and cottages ideal for families, groups, and extended stays.