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Hyannis

Hyannis Harbor Ferry Terminal

Overview

Hyannis serves as the gateway to Nantucket and offers seasonal service to Oak Bluffs on Martha's Vineyard. Located on the south shore of Cape Cod, the Ocean Street Dock area handles both Steamship Authority car ferries and Hy-Line's high-speed and traditional ferries. The protected inner harbor provides good shelter, though the longer crossing to Nantucket means open-water conditions matter significantly.

Seasonal Service

Hyannis operates year-round for Nantucket service, with both the Steamship Authority and Hy-Line Cruises providing options. Seasonal service to Oak Bluffs via Hy-Line runs approximately May through October. During summer, the terminal area becomes quite busy with multiple operators serving different destinations.

How Weather Affects Departures Here

The Hyannis harbor itself is relatively protected, so conditions at the dock often differ substantially from conditions on Nantucket Sound. This means that while departures may proceed, the crossing conditions can be challenging. South and southwest winds can build significant seas across Nantucket Sound during the crossing. The 26-mile route to Nantucket is the longest in the region, giving wind and waves more distance to build. Different vessel types respond differently to these conditions—high-speed ferries are generally more sensitive to wave action than traditional ferries. Easterly conditions can also affect operations, particularly when combined with offshore swells. Winter storms from the northeast may bring sustained periods of difficult conditions. Captains and operators make real-time decisions about service based on current and forecasted conditions. A crossing that seems feasible in one direction may be reconsidered based on conditions encountered.

Common Reasons Sailings Change

  • Sustained winds building seas across the long Nantucket Sound crossing
  • Wave conditions affecting passenger comfort and safety
  • High-speed ferry sensitivity to sea state
  • Visibility reduction from fog or precipitation
  • Conditions that develop during the crossing

What Travelers Should Know

For Nantucket travel, verify service status with both the Steamship Authority and Hy-Line Cruises, as they make independent operating decisions. High-speed ferry cancellations don't necessarily mean traditional ferry cancellations. During peak season, book vehicle reservations well in advance for Nantucket—availability is limited. If you're flexible, having backup plans for different departure times or ferry types can help during marginal weather.

Ferry Connections

Resources

Steamship Authority

Official schedules, reservations, and real-time status

Hy-Line Cruises

High-speed and traditional ferry service

Town of Barnstable

Local information and parking

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Nantucket route more weather-sensitive?

The 26-mile crossing to Nantucket is the longest in the region, giving wind and waves more distance to build across Nantucket Sound. Even moderate winds can create challenging conditions over that distance.

If the high-speed ferry cancels, will the traditional ferry run?

Not necessarily, but traditional ferries are generally less sensitive to wave action than high-speed ferries. The operators make independent decisions. Check with both the Steamship Authority and Hy-Line for their respective service status.

Does Hy-Line go to Vineyard Haven from Hyannis?

No. Hy-Line operates seasonal service from Hyannis to Oak Bluffs on Martha's Vineyard, not to Vineyard Haven. Year-round Vineyard service from the mainland is available through Woods Hole.

How far in advance should I book for Nantucket?

Vehicle reservations for Nantucket should be booked as far in advance as possible, especially for summer travel. Foot passenger space is generally more available but can fill during peak periods.

This page provides general information about ferry service at Hyannis. Always verify current schedules and service status directly with ferry operators before traveling.