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Nantucket

Nantucket Steamboat Wharf

Overview

Nantucket's Steamboat Wharf is the island's sole ferry connection to the mainland, located in the heart of Nantucket Town's historic district. Both Steamship Authority and Hy-Line Cruises operate year-round service from Hyannis, with traditional and high-speed options. The 26-mile crossing—the longest in the region—makes this route particularly sensitive to weather conditions.

Seasonal Service

Unlike Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket has only one ferry terminal operating year-round. Both the Steamship Authority and Hy-Line provide service throughout the year, though frequency increases significantly during summer months. The island relies entirely on this single connection for passenger and freight service.

How Weather Affects Departures Here

The 26-mile crossing between Hyannis and Nantucket is the longest ferry route in the Cape and Islands region. This distance means that wind and waves have more opportunity to build across Nantucket Sound, and conditions can change during the roughly one to two-hour crossing. Sustained winds from any direction can create challenging sea conditions over this distance. The sound is relatively shallow in many areas, which can cause steeper wave patterns than deeper water would produce. Different ferry types respond differently to sea conditions. High-speed ferries, which make the crossing in about an hour, may suspend service while traditional ferries continue to operate, or vice versa in some circumstances. The operators make independent decisions about their respective services. Nantucket harbor itself is well-protected once vessels enter, but the open-water crossing determines service feasibility. Fog can reduce visibility for the crossing, though it tends to be more common in certain seasons and weather patterns.

Common Reasons Sailings Change

  • Wind-driven seas building across the long Nantucket Sound crossing
  • Sea conditions affecting passenger safety and comfort
  • Different vessel types responding differently to conditions
  • Fog or precipitation reducing visibility
  • Conditions that develop or change during the crossing

What Travelers Should Know

Nantucket travel requires more weather awareness than shorter routes due to the 26-mile crossing. Check conditions and service status with both the Steamship Authority and Hy-Line before heading to Hyannis—they operate independently and may have different status. Book vehicle reservations as far ahead as possible; Nantucket vehicle space is limited and competitive. Having flexibility in your travel timing helps during marginal weather periods.

Ferry Connections

Resources

Steamship Authority

Vehicle ferry schedules and reservations

Hy-Line Cruises

High-speed and traditional passenger ferries

Town of Nantucket

Local government and visitor information

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Nantucket ferry more likely to be affected by weather?

The 26-mile crossing is significantly longer than other Cape and Islands routes. This gives wind and waves more distance to build, and conditions can change during the one to two-hour trip. Captains and operators assess whether the full crossing is feasible.

If the fast ferry cancels, should I expect the slow ferry to run?

Not necessarily, though traditional ferries can sometimes operate when high-speed ferries cannot. The Steamship Authority and Hy-Line make independent decisions. Check with each operator for their current service status.

How far ahead should I book vehicle space to Nantucket?

As far as possible, especially for summer travel. Nantucket vehicle ferry space is limited and in high demand. Some travelers book months in advance for peak season.

Is there any alternative to the ferry for reaching Nantucket?

Nantucket has a small airport with flights from various locations, though these can also be affected by weather. The ferry remains the primary connection for most travelers and all vehicle transport.

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