Get to Nantucket by ferry
Getting to Nantucket by ferry is super easy! The only problem is that you have a lot of options you can take. Well help you towards the island by providing you with all the info you need:
- The fastest ferry to Nantucket is from Hyannis. It's our preferred ferry towards the Island.
- The longest journey is via New Jersey and New York to the island.
- If you want to go with your car take the steamship authority ferry from Hyannis. However this is more an island suitable for bikes than it is for cars, we'll explain that later on!
Homes in Nantucket Harbor across from the Steamship Authority Dock
There are some differences between the different ferries that sail to Nantucket. Some are fast ferries for foot passengers, on other ferries you can make the crossing with your own car. We've done all the research for you so read carefully.
Also check out our handy Nantucket ferry map!
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Timetable, availability, and compare prices
Our online booking module makes it easy to find and book your desired ferry crossing to Nantucket. All you have to do is enter your departure port, destination, and travel dates. The system will show you the best routes and possible alternatives. You can then choose the ferry that best suits your needs and budget. Have a great trip!
Map with all ferry routes to Nantucket
From the mainland, there are only two crossings that go directly to Nantucket Island. Ferries from New York dock first in Oak Bluffs (Martha's Vineyard). This also applies to the ferry from New Belford when it sails during the low season.
The boats from Hyannis and Harwich Port are the fastest, but for many, these ports are also a bit further away. If you compare these harbors with the New Bedford crossing it takes about 30 minutes extra travel time to get there by car.
Travel tip: Book early
On the busier days, ferry boats can quickly become fully booked. Especially on routes around Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. The earlier you book, the greater the chance that you will have a place on the desired crossing.
Also on this page
High-Speed ferry to Nantucket
The quickest crossing is the Hyline to Nantucket. This fast ferry sails in only 1 hour and the standard rates are $43,50. The High-speed ferry departs from Hyannis. You can leave your car behind in the parking lot. That saves money and time. You can bring your bike on the ferry and cycle around Nantucket! Personally, we would take this one!
Nantucket ferry with car
The Steamship Authority car ferry passes Brant Point Lighthouse
The only car ferry to Nantucket departs from Hyannis and is operated by the Steamship Authority. It is the only option if you want to bring your car to Nantucket.
Book your ferry crossing with the Steamship Authority if you want a car ferry to Nantucket. Keep in mind that Nantucket is perfect for bicycling. It's very easy to bike around with very tolerant automobilists and many bike pathways.
New Jersey – New York – Martha's Vineyard – Nantucket
Seastreak ferry sailing between New York and New Jersey
Do you live in the metropolitan area of New York? Then consider this great connection to Nantucket. The ferry runs from New Jersey and New York to Nantucket. Here you will make a short stopover at the island of Martha's Vineyard.
From New York, this crossing takes approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes. As far as we are concerned, this is a good alternative to driving yourself and a lot more environmentally friendly than flying.[1]Ferry Emissions Research: Carbon Footprints Compared, Ferrygogo.com
Departure from Harwich Port
Those who like to travel a little more idyllically can opt for the smaller Freedom Cruises. The journey takes a little longer and it comes across as a little less efficient. That also makes it a bit more personal and a different experience. Sounds nice right? Then consider a departure from Harwich Port!
Nantucket Ferry Schedule
Since there are many ferry companies sailing to Nantucket, there are multiple ferry schedules. These ferry schedules also change during the year. It is therefore handy to check out the different schedules for the date you are planning to travel.
Hyannis-Nantucket ferry schedule
- Hyline High-Speed ferry Schedule: Check the booking module.
- Steamship Authority: Schedule page
Harwich-Nantucket ferry schedule
- Freedom Cruise Line: check “schedule” in the menu for the most up-to-date info
New Jersey – New York – Nantucket ferry Schedule
- Seastreak ferry: Schedule from New Jersey / New York
Frequently Asked Questions: Nantucket ferry
There is no ferry from Boston to Nantucket. If you want to travel to Nantucket from Boston, the best option is to drive to New Bedford, Hyannis or Harwich.
Yes! multiple ferries sail from Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. Hy-Line has a connection between the two islands and also Seastreak has ferries that sail to both islands. The islands are quite the same in the way that when you've seen one, maybe for that same day you can skip the other. But that's up to you!
The costs for a ferry ticket to Nantucket depend on many factors: the crowds, which departure port you choose, and whether you want to travel on foot as a passenger or go on board by car. The fastest crossing costs $87 (round trip). The ferry to Nantucket from New York can easily cost over $260 in the low season and $330 in the high season (round trip).
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References
| ↑1 | Ferry Emissions Research: Carbon Footprints Compared, Ferrygogo.com |
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Time of departure/arrival. Hyannis to Nantucket