Ferry Terminal Guide
Taxi info for both ferry docks
Airport Taxi Guide
ACK taxi pickup & fares
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Getting to Nantucket
Ferry Options
Steamship Authority
Route: Hyannis to Nantucket
Options: Fast Ferry (1 hour) or Traditional Ferry (2.5 hours)
Vehicle Transport: Yes, on traditional ferry (reservations required months in advance in summer)
Year-Round Service: Yes, though reduced schedule in winter
Website: steamshipauthority.com
Booking Tips: Reserve early for summer travel, especially for vehicle transport. Walk-on passengers usually don't need reservations off-season but should book ahead in summer.
Hy-Line Cruises
Route: Hyannis to Nantucket
High-Speed Ferry: Approximately 1 hour
Vehicle Transport: No (passengers only)
Season: Mid-May through October (seasonal service)
Website: hylinecruises.com
Advantage: Often more frequent departures during peak season, comfortable high-speed service
Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK)
Airlines: JetBlue, Delta, United, American Airlines, Cape Air
Peak Season: Seasonal flights from major cities (May-September)
Year-Round: Cape Air service to Boston, Hyannis, and other regional airports
Private Aviation: Full FBO services available for private jets
Flight Duration: Boston (45 min), New York (1 hr), Washington DC (1.5 hrs)
Hyannis Parking Tips
Port Parking: Daily parking available near ferry terminals ($20-30/day depending on season)
Reservations: Recommended for summer weekends and holidays
Off-Season: More availability and lower rates October through April
Alternatives: Consider Uber/Lyft to Hyannis terminal if traveling from nearby Cape Cod towns
Pro Tip: Arrive at least 45 minutes before ferry departure in summer, 30 minutes off-season
Getting Around the Island
When to Use What
Walking 🚶
Best for: Downtown area
Radius: Within 1 mile of town center
Tip: Most downtown attractions are walkable
Biking 🚴
Best for: Beaches, Surfside, Cisco Brewery
Radius: 3-5 miles from town
Tip: Excellent bike paths throughout the island
Taxi 🚕
Best for: Airport/ferry arrival, Siasconset, Madaket
Radius: Anywhere on island, especially 5+ miles
Tip: Essential for luggage or long distances
Bus 🚌
Best for: Budget travel to beaches, Siasconset
Radius: Major routes only
Tip: Seasonal service (June-September)
NRTA Wave Bus System
Service Period: Late June through early September (summer only)
Routes: Town to Surfside Beach, Siasconset, Madaket, and mid-island
Fare: FREE! No cost for any rides
Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes depending on route
Bikes: Front-mounted bike racks available (first-come, first-served)
Website: nrtawave.com
Note: Great budget option but limited to main routes and summer season
Uber & Lyft Availability
Summer (June-August): Generally available but limited drivers. Wait times can be 15-30 minutes during peak hours.
Shoulder Season (May, September): Very limited availability, especially evenings and early mornings.
Off-Season (October-April): Extremely limited or no service. Traditional taxis are more reliable.
Peak Times: Ferry arrivals, restaurant closing times (9-10 PM), and weekend mornings see longest waits.
Recommendation: Don't rely on rideshare apps as your only option. Save taxi numbers or use our Cab Picker tool.
Car Rental Considerations
Availability: Several agencies at ACK airport and downtown locations
Cost: Expensive ($100-200+/day in summer) due to island pricing
Parking: Limited downtown parking, especially in summer
Traffic: Downtown congestion in summer, narrow historic streets
Alternative: Many visitors find the combination of walking/biking/occasional taxi more economical and stress-free
When It Makes Sense: Families with small children, accessibility needs, or planning to explore the entire island extensively
Sample Taxi Fares
Note: Fares are zone-based and regulated by the Town of Nantucket. Rates shown are approximate and subject to change. Additional charges may apply for extra passengers, luggage, and late-night service.
Always confirm the fare with your driver before starting your trip. Most taxis accept credit cards but it's good to confirm in advance.
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