Steamship Authority

The Steamship Authority is the official ferry line of Massachusetts and the only carrier licensed to transport vehicles to Nantucket. Operating year-round, it's the workhorse of Nantucket transportation and the most popular choice for visitors.

Traditional Ferry

The traditional ferry is the classic Nantucket crossing experience, offering spacious vessels with multiple indoor and outdoor seating areas.

  • Duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes
  • Vessels: Large car ferries (M/V Eagle, M/V Nantucket, M/V Sankaty)
  • Capacity: Vehicles and passengers
  • Adult fare: $20-23 one-way
  • Frequency: Multiple daily departures, more in summer
  • Amenities: Snack bar, restrooms, outdoor deck seating, indoor climate-controlled cabins

The traditional ferry is ideal if you're bringing a vehicle, prefer a more relaxed journey, or want to save money compared to the fast ferry options.

Fast Ferry (M/V Iyanough)

The Steamship Authority's high-speed catamaran is the fastest option for foot passengers, cutting the crossing time in half.

  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Vessel: M/V Iyanough high-speed catamaran
  • Capacity: Passengers only (no vehicles)
  • Adult fare: $40-47 one-way
  • Frequency: Multiple daily departures, primarily seasonal
  • Amenities: Airline-style seating, climate-controlled cabin, limited deck access, snack bar

The fast ferry fills up quickly during summer months. Book early, especially for weekend travel.

Vehicle Reservations

Bringing a car to Nantucket requires advance planning. Vehicle reservations are highly competitive, especially during summer.

  • Booking opens: Approximately 30 days in advance for standard reservations
  • Summer peak: Reservations can sell out within hours of opening
  • Vehicle fare: $245-$485 round-trip depending on vehicle size and season (includes driver)
  • Standby option: Available for cars without reservations, but very unreliable in summer
  • Tip: Consider leaving your car in Hyannis - most visitors don't need a car on Nantucket

Hy-Line Cruises

Hy-Line Cruises is the private alternative to the Steamship Authority, offering a premium passenger-only ferry experience with year-round service.

High-Speed Catamaran (Grey Lady)

The Grey Lady vessels are Hy-Line's flagship service, named after Nantucket's famous nickname.

  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Vessels: Grey Lady I, II, III, and IV
  • Capacity: Passengers only (no vehicles)
  • Adult fare: $45-49 one-way
  • Frequency: Multiple daily departures year-round
  • Amenities: Comfortable seating, full bar service, snacks, climate-controlled cabin

First Class Option

Hy-Line offers a first-class upgrade for passengers seeking a more luxurious crossing:

  • Additional cost: Approximately $25-35 per person each way
  • Seating: Upper deck with panoramic ocean views
  • Service: Dedicated bar service, complimentary beverages
  • Comfort: Leather seats, more legroom, less crowded
  • Best for: Special occasions, business travelers, or those wanting a quieter experience

First class is especially worthwhile on clear days when the views are spectacular.

Inter-Island Service

Hy-Line also operates the only direct ferry between Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard during summer months:

  • Duration: Approximately 1 hour
  • Season: Late May through mid-October
  • Great for: Day trips between islands or multi-island vacations

Departure Information

Both ferry companies depart from Hyannis, located at the "elbow" of Cape Cod. Here's what you need to know about getting there and boarding.

Hyannis Terminal Locations

  • Steamship Authority: 141 School Street, Hyannis - includes parking lots on-site
  • Hy-Line Cruises: 220 Ocean Street, Hyannis - located near the harbor
  • Both terminals are within walking distance of each other and downtown Hyannis

Getting to Hyannis

  • From Boston: Approximately 1.5 hours by car (75 miles) via Route 3 South to Route 6
  • By bus: Peter Pan Bus Lines and Plymouth & Brockton operate regular service from Boston to Hyannis
  • By air: Cape Air flies from Boston to Hyannis (15 minutes)
  • From Providence: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car
  • From New York: Approximately 4-5 hours by car

Parking in Hyannis

  • Steamship Authority lots: $20-25 per day, reservations recommended for summer
  • Hy-Line parking: Private lots nearby at similar rates
  • Off-site parking: Several private lots offer lower rates with shuttle service
  • Tip: Book parking when you book your ferry ticket in summer

Booking Your Ferry

Strategic booking can save you money and guarantee you a spot on your preferred departure.

When to Book

  • Peak summer weekends: Book 2-4 weeks in advance minimum
  • Holidays: July 4th, Labor Day, and Christmas Stroll weekends sell out quickly
  • Fast ferries: Book earlier than traditional ferries - they have fewer seats
  • Off-season: Same-day booking usually available

Price Comparison (One-Way Adult Fares)

  • Steamship Traditional Ferry: $20-23
  • Steamship Fast Ferry: $40-47
  • Hy-Line High-Speed: $45-49
  • Hy-Line First Class: $70-85

Children, seniors, and bicycle surcharges vary by carrier. Check websites for current rates.

Booking Tips

  • Print your tickets or have them ready on your phone
  • Create accounts on both ferry websites to speed checkout
  • Sign up for email alerts about schedule changes
  • Consider round-trip tickets for slight savings
  • Check cancellation policies before booking - they vary by ticket type

What to Expect on the Crossing

The ferry ride to Nantucket is more than just transportation - it's the beginning of your island experience.

Boarding Process

  • Arrival time: Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure (earlier in summer)
  • Check-in: Show your ticket at the terminal before boarding
  • Luggage: Bring your bags on board with you (no checked luggage)
  • Boarding: Walk-on passengers board after vehicles (for car ferries)

During the Journey

  • Seating: First-come, first-served on most ferries
  • Food and drink: Snack bars sell sandwiches, snacks, coffee, and beer/wine
  • Outdoor areas: Traditional ferries have large open decks; fast ferries have limited outdoor access
  • Cell service: May be spotty mid-crossing
  • WiFi: Available on some vessels but can be unreliable

Arrival in Nantucket

  • Ferries dock at Steamboat Wharf in the heart of downtown Nantucket
  • Walk off the ferry directly into the cobblestone streets
  • Bike rentals and taxis are available steps from the dock
  • Most hotels and inns are within walking distance

Insider Tips for a Great Crossing

  • Book early for summer weekends: Fast ferries can sell out weeks in advance. Traditional ferries are easier to book last-minute, but departure times may be inconvenient.
  • Fast ferries fill up faster: With fewer seats and quicker crossing times, the fast ferry is the most popular option. Book as soon as you know your travel dates.
  • Arrive 30-60 minutes early: Steamship Authority requires check-in 30 minutes before departure for passengers, 60 minutes for vehicles. Hy-Line recommends 30 minutes.
  • Motion sickness preparation: If you're prone to seasickness, take medication before boarding, sit mid-ship where motion is least, stay on deck in fresh air, focus on the horizon, and avoid reading or screens.
  • Make the most of the crossing: Bring a good book, pack snacks for kids, go outside to look for seals and birds, take photos as Nantucket's lighthouses come into view, and enjoy a drink at the bar to start your vacation early.
  • Check the weather: Rough seas can cause delays or cancellations. Check forecasts and have backup plans.
  • Pack layers: It's often cooler on the water than on land, especially on deck.
  • Bring entertainment: WiFi can be spotty - download movies or bring books for the crossing.

Seasonal Considerations

Ferry service and demand vary significantly throughout the year.

Peak Season (June - August)

  • Maximum departures with ferries running frequently all day
  • Highest demand - book well in advance
  • Longer lines at terminals
  • Vehicle reservations extremely competitive
  • Consider weekday travel to avoid weekend crowds

Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October)

  • Reduced but still frequent schedule
  • Easier to book on shorter notice
  • Often the best crossing conditions (calm seas, clear skies)
  • Vehicle reservations more available

Off-Season (November - March)

  • Limited schedule with fewer daily departures
  • Steamship Authority traditional ferry operates year-round
  • Hy-Line high-speed runs year-round but with reduced frequency
  • Weather delays more common due to nor'easters
  • Vehicle reservations usually available

Weather and Cancellations

Weather can significantly impact ferry operations. Being prepared helps avoid vacation disruptions.

Common Weather Issues

  • Fog: Can delay departures, especially in spring and early summer mornings
  • High winds: May cause delays or cancellations, especially for fast ferries
  • Nor'easters: Winter storms can halt service for multiple days
  • Rough seas: Fast ferries are more likely to be cancelled in rough conditions

Backup Planning

  • Check ferry websites and social media for real-time updates
  • Have both ferry companies' numbers saved in your phone
  • Consider flying as an alternative (Cape Air operates year-round)
  • Build buffer days into your schedule for return travel
  • Book refundable accommodations if traveling during uncertain weather