Ferries to Nantucket & Martha’s Vineyard
Hyannis, a bustling port town located in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a popular gateway to the picturesque islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. While both islands are famous for their natural beauty, rich history, and quaint villages, getting there can be a bit confusing for first-time visitors. In this article, we will provide a concise guide to the ferries that operate between Hyannis and Nantucket/Martha's Vineyard.
Ferries to Nantucket: Nantucket is located approximately 30 miles south of Cape Cod and is only accessible by boat or plane. There are three ferry companies that operate between Hyannis and Nantucket:
Hy-Line Cruises: Hy-Line Cruises operates year-round ferry service between Hyannis and Nantucket. During peak season (May to October), the company offers up to 10 round-trip ferries per day, with travel time averaging 1 hour. Off-season schedules are less frequent.
Steamship Authority: The Steamship Authority is a state-run ferry service that operates year-round service between Hyannis and Nantucket. During peak season, the company offers up to 10 round-trip ferries per day, with travel time averaging 1 hour and 20 minutes. Off-season schedules are less frequent.
Freedom Cruise Line: Freedom Cruise Line operates seasonal ferry service between Hyannis and Nantucket. The company offers up to 4 round-trip ferries per day during the peak season (June to September), with travel time averaging 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Ferries to Martha's Vineyard: Martha's Vineyard is located approximately 7 miles off the coast of Cape Cod and is accessible by boat or plane. There are three ferry companies that operate between Hyannis and Martha's Vineyard:
Hy-Line Cruises: Hy-Line Cruises operates seasonal ferry service between Hyannis and Martha's Vineyard. During peak season (May to October), the company offers up to 13 round-trip ferries per day, with travel time averaging 1 hour and 15 minutes. Off-season schedules are less frequent.
Steamship Authority: The Steamship Authority operates year-round ferry service between Hyannis and Martha's Vineyard. During peak season, the company offers up to 14 round-trip ferries per day, with travel time averaging 1 hour and 30 minutes. Off-season schedules are less frequent.
Island Queen: Island Queen operates seasonal ferry service between Hyannis and Martha's Vineyard. During peak season (June to September), the company offers up to 12 round-trip ferries per day, with travel time averaging 35 minutes.
Tips for Taking the Ferries:
Book in Advance: Ferry tickets can sell out quickly, especially during peak season. To ensure a smooth trip, it's best to book your tickets in advance online or by phone.
Arrive Early: Ferries can be crowded during peak season, so it's best to arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
Pack Appropriately: The weather can be unpredictable on the islands, so it's best to bring layers and rain gear. Additionally, the ferries can get chilly, so bringing a sweater or jacket is recommended.
In conclusion, taking the ferries from Hyannis to Nantucket or Martha's Vineyard is a convenient and scenic way to visit these beautiful islands. With multiple ferry companies and schedules to choose from, you can easily plan a trip that suits your needs and budget.
