You cannot drive all the way to Nantucket — the island sits 30 miles off the coast of Massachusetts and has no bridge. You reach it by ferry, and your car can go with you on some routes but not others. The two ferry operators that carry vehicles are the Steamship Authority (the only year-round option) and Hy-Line Cruises (seasonal). Both depart from the mainland, take 1 to 2.5 hours depending on the ferry type, and require you to book your vehicle in advance.

Key Takeaways

  • The Steamship Authority runs car ferries year-round from Woods Hole, Massachusetts to Nantucket, taking about 1 hour on the fast ferry or 2.25 hours on the traditional ferry.
  • Hy-Line Cruises operates seasonal car ferries from Hyannis, Massachusetts from May through October, with crossing times of 1 to 2.5 hours depending on the vessel.
  • You must reserve your vehicle space weeks or months in advance during peak summer travel, especially if you are traveling in July or August.
  • Both ferry operators charge separate fares for passengers and vehicles, and prices vary by season and ferry type.
  • If you cannot bring your car, you can rent one on Nantucket or travel as a foot passenger and use taxis, shuttles, or rental bikes.

Steamship Authority: The Year-Round Option from Woods Hole

The Steamship Authority is the only ferry operator running to Nantucket every day of the year. It departs from Woods Hole in Falmouth, Massachusetts, which is about 1.5 hours south of Boston by car. The Authority runs two types of ferries: the traditional ferry (2 hours 15 minutes) and the fast ferry (1 hour). Both carry vehicles in a separate car deck.

Vehicle reservations are required and must be made in advance. During summer months (June through September), the Authority recommends booking at least 4 to 6 weeks ahead, and popular dates often fill completely. Off-season travel (October through May) is easier to book but still requires a reservation. You pay separately for your vehicle and for each passenger. Prices depend on the season and ferry type — the fast ferry costs more than the traditional ferry.

The Steamship Authority terminal in Woods Hole has parking available if you want to leave your car behind, though spaces fill quickly in summer. You can also park in nearby lots and take a shuttle to the terminal. Check the Steamship Authority website (steamshipauthority.com) for current vehicle rates, passenger fares, and reservation availability.

Hy-Line Cruises: Seasonal Service from Hyannis

Hy-Line Cruises operates car ferries from Hyannis, Massachusetts from May through October. Hyannis is about 1.5 hours south of Boston and sits on Cape Cod. The crossing takes 1 hour on the fast ferry or 2.5 hours on the traditional ferry. Like the Steamship Authority, Hy-Line requires advance vehicle reservations and charges separately for passengers and vehicles.

Hy-Line's peak season is July and August, when reservations should be made 6 to 8 weeks in advance. Shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October) are less crowded but still require booking ahead. The Hyannis terminal has parking available, and rates vary by length of stay. Visit hylinecruises.com for current fares, schedules, and reservation details.

Hy-Line also runs a fast passenger-only ferry from Hyannis to Nantucket (1 hour), which does not carry vehicles. This option is useful if you plan to rent a car on the island or do not need your own vehicle.

Booking Your Vehicle Reservation

Both ferry operators require you to reserve your vehicle space before you arrive at the terminal. You cannot show up and expect to drive on — vehicle capacity is limited and fills quickly, especially in summer. Reservations are made online or by phone through each operator's website.

When you book, you will need to provide your vehicle's license plate, make, model, and length. The ferry operators use this information to calculate deck space and confirm your reservation. You will also need to provide a contact phone number and email address. Most reservations can be modified or cancelled up to a certain number of days before your travel date, though policies vary.

Arrive at the terminal at least 45 minutes before departure for a traditional ferry and 60 minutes before a fast ferry. You will drive your car onto the ferry deck, park it, and then go to the passenger area. On the return trip from Nantucket, the same process applies — reserve in advance and arrive early.

What It Costs to Drive Your Car to Nantucket

Ferry costs vary by season, ferry type, and operator. The Steamship Authority's traditional ferry typically costs less than the fast ferry. Hy-Line's pricing follows a similar pattern. Vehicle fares are charged per trip (one-way), not per day, and passenger fares are separate.

As a rough guide, a standard passenger vehicle on the Steamship Authority's traditional ferry costs more in summer than in winter, and the fast ferry costs more than the traditional ferry year-round. Passenger fares also vary by age (children, seniors, and adults have different rates). The most current pricing is on each operator's website, since rates change seasonally and can shift year to year.

If you are traveling with multiple vehicles or a large group, ask about group rates or multi-vehicle discounts. Some travelers find it cheaper to leave their car on the mainland and rent one on Nantucket, especially for short stays, because ferry vehicle fares plus parking add up quickly.

Parking and Leaving Your Car Behind

If you do not want to bring your car on the ferry, both the Steamship Authority and Hy-Line offer parking at their terminals. Steamship Authority parking in Woods Hole fills quickly in summer and charges a daily rate. Hy-Line's Hyannis terminal also has parking available. Some travelers park in nearby municipal lots or private lots, which may be cheaper than terminal parking.

Once you reach Nantucket, you can rent a car from agencies like Hertz, Avis, or Budget, or use local rental shops. You can also travel by taxi, ride-share services, or rental bicycles — Nantucket is relatively small and many visitors get around without a car. If you are staying in town, a car is often unnecessary.

Planning Your Drive to the Ferry Terminal

The Steamship Authority terminal in Woods Hole is in Falmouth, at the southern tip of Cape Cod. From Boston, take I-93 South to Route 3 South, then follow signs to Route 28 South toward Falmouth. The drive takes about 1.5 hours depending on traffic. Parking at the terminal fills early in summer, so arrive at least 2 hours before your ferry departure.

Hy-Line's terminal in Hyannis is more central on Cape Cod and easier to reach from the north. From Boston, take I-93 South to Route 3 South, then follow Route 6 East toward Hyannis. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Hyannis parking is also limited in peak season, so plan to arrive early.

Check traffic conditions before you leave, especially on Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings during summer weekends. Cape Cod traffic can be heavy, and missing your ferry reservation means losing your spot and potentially waiting days for the next available crossing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my car on the fast ferry?

Yes, both the Steamship Authority and Hy-Line run fast ferries that carry vehicles. The fast ferry takes about 1 hour compared to 2 to 2.5 hours on the traditional ferry, but costs more. Vehicle reservations are required on both types.

What if I miss my ferry reservation?

If you miss your departure, contact the ferry operator when ready. You may be able to book a later crossing the same day if space is available, but you will likely lose your original reservation fee. During peak season, the next available crossing could be days away.

Can I bring a rental car on the ferry?

Yes, you can bring a rental car on either ferry, but you must make the reservation in your name and provide the rental car's license plate and details. Some rental agencies charge extra fees for ferry travel, so check your rental agreement before booking.

Is it cheaper to rent a car on Nantucket instead of driving mine?

It depends on how long you are staying and the current ferry rates. For a weekend trip, the ferry vehicle fare plus parking may cost more than renting a car on the island. For longer stays, bringing your own car is usually cheaper. Compare both options before you book.

Do I need a reservation if I am traveling as a foot passenger without a car?

Foot passengers do not need advance reservations on either ferry operator, though you should still book your ticket ahead during peak summer travel to may support a seat. Passenger-only ferries run more frequently and have more capacity than car ferries.