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Getting to & Around the Island

Getting to the Island

We are located 30 miles south of Cape Cod, making it essential to plan your journey carefully when traveling to the beautiful island of Nantucket. The unique geography and the limited access to the island mean that visitors must consider their transportation options ahead of time. There are a variety of air and ferry services available, but it is crucial to make reservations well in advance, especially during the busy summer months when demand is at its peak.

By Ferry

For those planning a visit to Nantucket, the most convenient and scenic way to arrive is undoubtedly by ferry. During the peak tourist season, which runs from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, there are multiple fast and "traditional" car ferry options that operate regularly from various ports across Massachusetts. This not only allows for a picturesque journey across the water but also provides a chance to enjoy the stunning views of the harbor upon arrival.

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Hy-Line Cruises and The Steamship Authority (“Steamship”) are the two primary providers of daily ferry services, both departing from Hyannis, MA on Cape Cod, and offering direct routes to Nantucket.

The fast ferries from take just one hour from dock to dock, providing a swift and comfortable ride. The more economical “traditional” ferry operated by the Steamship offers a leisurely cruise that lasts approximately two hours and fifteen minutes. If you plan to bring a car with you, the Steamship is your only option, and it is important to ensure you are departing from Hyannis, as their Woods Hole port only services ferries to Martha’s Vineyard. Both ferry services feature fast-ferry options for those who prefer a quicker trip.

For those driving to the ferry terminals, there are multiple parking lots available within easy walking distance or a short shuttle ride from either ferry landing. These lots offer a range of daily or weekly parking options, making it convenient for travelers to leave their vehicles while they explore Nantucket.

Seastreak provides daily ferry service from New Bedford to Nantucket, as well as a weekend schedule connecting New York City and Nantucket. Their service operates seasonally from May 18 - September 5. More information can be found HERE.

The Freedom Cruise Line offers a direct departure from Harwich Port, MA, with service straight to Town in Nantucket, providing another convenient option for travelers looking to reach the island. For more details, visit HERE.

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By Air

Cape Air
Cape Air has multiple daily flights to and from Hyannis. In addition, there are flights to Boston, New Bedford, Martha’s Vineyard, and other locations depending on the time of year. Please visit their website for the most up-to-date information.

JetBlue
JetBlue provides seasonal service from Nantucket (ACK) to Boston, MA (BOS), Washington-National (DCA), New York City (JFK, and LGA), Newark (EWR) and Westchester County (HPN).

Tradewind Aviation
Tradewind Aviation provides seasonal scheduled service from Nantucket (ACK) to Westchester County, NY (HPN) and Teterboro, NJ (TEB). They also offer private flight options.

Delta
Delta Airlines provides seasonal service from Nantucket (ACK) to New York City (JFK and LGA).

Gull Air
Gull Air offers limited weekday service between Hyannis and Nantucket.

American
American provides seasonal service from Nantucket (ACK) to Washington-National (DCA), Charlotte (CLT), Chicago O'Hare (ORD), and Philadelphia (PHL).

United
United Airlines provides seasonal service from Nantucket (ACK) to Newark, NJ (EWR) and Washington-Dulles (IAD).

Getting Around the Island

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Rent a Bike

Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or simply looking to save on transportation costs, Bike Rentals to Nantucket is a great option. All ferry services welcome bicycles for a small fee, allowing you to easily walk your bike on and off the vessel yourself, or you can opt to have the crew assist you with the process. Once you arrive on the island, you will find miles of bike paths that meander through Nantucket’s stunning landscapes, allowing you to discover its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and historic charm at your own pace.

Young’s Bike (508) 228-1151 https://youngsbicycleshop.com/

Easy Riders (508) 325-2722 https://easyridersbikerentals.com/

Nantucket Bike Shop (508) 228-1999 https://nantucketbikeshop.com/

Island Bike Company (508) 228-4070 https://www.islandbike.com/

NANTUKTUK – Pedicab Service (508) 257-1443 https://nantuktuk.org/

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Car Rentals

In addition to the traditional car rental agencies, many people are increasingly using Turo, a peer-to-peer car rental service. This platform can be accessed at https://turo.com/, where you can browse a wide variety of vehicles offered by local islanders who rent their personal cars. Many local car owners will go the extra mile to bring the vehicle directly to your accommodation, whether it's a hotel or a vacation rental, making the process seamless and hassle-free. Furthermore, some of these local rentals may come with added perks, such as beach permits.

When opting to rent through a car rental agency, you should inquire about whether their vehicles come equipped with beach permits. There are two types. One for accessing the public beaches, and the other, issued by the Trustees of Reservations. This permit grants you access to the exclusive location of the Great Point Lighthouse, a stunning destination that offers breathtaking views and a unique coastal experience. Driving on the beach allows you to bring along all your gear, including beach chairs, umbrellas, and picnic supplies, creating an unforgettable tailgating experience right by the ocean.

ACK Jeeps (508) 228-1151 https://www.ack-jeeps.com/

Affordable Rentals (508) 325-2722 https://www.affrentals.com/

Nantucket Island Rent a Car (508) 228-1999 https://nantucketislandrentacar.com/

Youngs Jeep Rentals (508) 228-4070 https://youngsbicycleshop.com/

Public Transit

The WAVE

If you are staying outside of Town but arriving by ferry, The WAVE bus service picks up just a couple of blocks from the docks and travels across the island, stopping at various convenient locations along the way. Each bus is equipped with a bike rack, making it easy for you to bring your bike along for the ride. The WAVE is free. If you are flying into Nantucket instead, The WAVE also makes stops at the airport, ensuring a quick 20-minute trip to Town. Given the limited availability of taxis and Uber services during busy flight times, The WAVE offers a reliable, air-conditioned, and always FREE alternative to help you reach your desired destination effortlessly.

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Taxis

Here are some suggestions for taxi companies that will be glad to bring you anywhere on island. The island also has Uber services.

All Point Taxi  (508) 228-5779 

Roger's Taxi (508) 818-8294 

Val's Cab (508) 228-9410

Inter-Island Travel

Are you considering a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard—or perhaps you want to split your time between the two beautiful islands? Hy-Line Cruises offers direct inter-island service between Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard during the peak season, making it incredibly easy to explore both destinations. The ferry schedule is designed with day-trippers in mind, so you can leave Nantucket in the morning, enjoy a full day on the Vineyard, and return in time for a delightful dinner back on Nantucket. Alternatively, you can make it a two-island vacation by starting on either island, hopping over to the other, and returning to the Cape from the same convenient port in Hyannis.

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