TRANSPORTATION
Located 26 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, Nantucket is accessible by ferry from Hyannis or by air from Boston and other major cities. Understanding your transportation options is essential for island living, whether you are commuting for work, welcoming guests, or planning seasonal travel.
The ferry terminal in downtown Nantucket serves as the primary arrival point for most visitors and residents. Choosing a neighborhood with easy terminal access can significantly impact your daily life, especially if you travel frequently to the mainland.
FERRY OPTIONS
Traditional Ferry
High-Speed Ferry (M/V Iyanough)
High-Speed Ferry (Grey Lady)
VEHICLE TRANSPORT
Bringing a vehicle to Nantucket requires advance planning. Here is what you need to know about securing a vehicle reservation.
Summer vehicle reservations open in late January. The most popular dates sell out within hours. Mark your calendar for the General Internet Opening.
General Internet Opening: January 27, 2026 at 8 AM. Telephone/In-Person Opening: February 10, 2026. Plan to book online when reservations first open.
Many residents and visitors opt to go car-free. The island has bike paths, the WAVE shuttle system, taxis, and rental options once on-island.
Outside peak summer months (June-August), car reservations are easier to secure. Shoulder seasons offer more flexibility for vehicle transport.
FLY TO NANTUCKET
Boston Logan (BOS) to Nantucket (ACK)
Boston, New York, Washington DC to Nantucket
Located approximately 3 miles from downtown Nantucket, the airport is easily accessible by taxi, ride share, or the WAVE shuttle. Rental cars are available at the airport for those who prefer to have a vehicle on-island.
LOCATION MATTERS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The traditional Steamship Authority ferry takes 2 hours and 15 minutes from Hyannis to Nantucket. High-speed ferries (both Steamship Authority and Hy-Line Cruises) make the trip in approximately 1 hour.
Yes, but only on the Steamship Authority traditional ferry. Vehicle reservations are required and must be booked well in advance, especially for summer travel. Reservations open in late January for the summer season.
Downtown Nantucket is within walking distance of the ferry terminal. Brant Point is about half a mile away. Surfside and Polpis are 2-4 miles from downtown but well-connected by bike paths and the WAVE shuttle.
Yes. Cape Air offers year-round flights from Boston Logan Airport, with a flight time of approximately 55 minutes. JetBlue provides seasonal service from Boston, New York area airports, and Washington DC.
Many residents and visitors live comfortably without a car. Downtown is walkable, bike paths connect major areas, the WAVE shuttle provides free transportation, and taxis/ride services are available. However, a car provides more flexibility, especially for accessing remote beaches or traveling with families.
Steamship Authority traditional ferry: $43 round-trip for adults, $22 for children 5-12. High-speed ferry: approximately $89-91 round-trip for adults. Vehicle transport starts at $410 round-trip. Children under 5 travel free.
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