How To Get To Nantucket
by Ferry or Plane
Travel to Nantucket is simple whether you arrive by boat or by air,
with easy transportation options once you’re on island.
Plan your trip
Getting to Nantucket
Whether you're coming from Boston, Providence, or New York, select your departure city to see your options.
From Boston / Logan Airport
Three routes — fly direct, take the fast ferry, or drive to Hyannis
- Cape Air operates daily flights from Logan (BOS) to Nantucket (ACK)
- Small 9-seat turboprop with stunning aerial views
- Book early — flights fill fast in summer
- South Station bus or Logan Express to Hyannis (about 1.5 hrs)
- Hy-Line Cruises high-speed ferry (about 1 hr) or Steamship Authority fast ferry — bike and passangers only
- Great option if you want to avoid airline bag fees
- Drive about 90 min to Hyannis (longer in summer traffic)
- Steamship Authority traditional ferry (about 2.25 hrs) — can bring your car to the island
- Reserve car space months in advance during peak season
- Cape Air operates daily flights from Hyannis (HYA) to Nantucket (ACK)
- Small 9-seat turboprop with stunning aerial views
- Book early — flights fill fast in summer
From Providence / TF Green Airport
A quick hop by air or a scenic drive-and-sail combo
- Cape Air offers seasonal direct flights from PVD to ACK
- Check availability — schedules vary by season
- Quickest door-to-door option from southern New England
- Drive about 1.5 hrs north to Hyannis via I-195 and US-6
- Steamship Authority or Hy-Line Cruises from Hyannis
- Park in Hyannis and take the fast ferry for the easiest experience
- Fly or take Amtrak/bus to Boston, then connect to Cape Air
- Best if direct PVD flights aren't available on your dates
- Allow at least 2 hrs for the connection
From New York City
Fly direct, take a charter, or make it a road trip
- Cape Air flies from JFK and other NYC-area airports to ACK
- Seasonal charters also available from JFK and Teterboro (TEB)
- Most convenient if you want to skip the drive entirely
- Blade and other charter services offer flights from Manhattan
- Private plane charters from Teterboro (TEB) or White Plains (HPN)
- Premium pricing but unmatched convenience
- Drive about 4.5–5 hrs to Hyannis (more in summer weekend traffic)
- Steamship Authority traditional ferry — great if you want your car on-island
- Consider an overnight stop on Cape Cod to break up the journey
By Air
Nantucket is within reach of major US cities with commercial and charter flights in season from Cape Cod, Boston, New York, Providence, Philadelphia, DC, Chicago, and more.
Flights arrive at Nantucket Memorial Airport with services that make it easy to begin your stay.
Plan Your Flight
By Boat
High-speed ferries carry passengers and bicycles in about an hour from Hyannis, with seasonal departures from other coastal cities.
Nantucket also offers marinas and moorings for visiting boaters.
Plan your crossing
Once You Arrive
Cars and bikes to rent, bicycle tours, limousines, shuttle buses, and taxis are available for getting around the island. Nantucket has extensive bike paths and walking trails, making it easy to explore without a vehicle.
FAQ
What is the best way to get to Nantucket
Visitors must choose between flying and taking a boat. Flights to Nantucket Memorial Airport run in-season from several East Coast cities and year-round from Barnstable Municipal Airport in Hyannis, MA. Boats include traditional ferries for cars and passengers and high speed ferries for passengers and bicycles. The best choice depends on your departure point, your schedule, and whether you are bringing a vehicle.
How long does the ferry ride to Nantucket take
Traditional ferries take a little more than two hours to reach Nantucket from Hyannis. High speed ferries can make the trip in about one hour. Travel times can vary by operator and route so it is a good idea to check current schedules before you book.
Does Nantucket have an airport
Yes. Nantucket Memorial Airport receives seasonal commercial flights and charter flights from a number of US cities along with year round service from some nearby locations. At the airport you will find ground transportation options and services that make it easy to continue into town or to your lodging.
Does Nantucket have a bridge to the mainland
No. Nantucket is an island thirty miles off the coast of Massachusetts and there is no bridge or roadway connection to the mainland. All travel to and from the island is by air or by boat. Visitors either fly into Nantucket Memorial Airport or arrive on traditional or high speed ferries from nearby coastal cities.