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How To Get To Nantucket Island: A 2025 Guide

How To Get To Nantucket Island: A 2025 Guide

06/20/2025

With its serene beaches and enriching historic districts, Nantucket Island remains one of the most sought-after destinations. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful island in 2025, knowing the best ways to travel to Nantucket can help set the tone for a seamless and enjoyable experience. From ferries to flights, here’s your complete guide on how to get to Nantucket, ensuring your journey is as pleasant as your arrival.

Ferries to Nantucket: The Scenic Route

One of the most popular and scenic ways to get to Nantucket is by ferry. Ferries offer not only a reliable service but also beautiful views of the ocean, setting the stage for your island adventure.

  • Hy-Line Cruises provides both high-speed and traditional ferries, offering quick and comfortable rides from Hyannis to Nantucket. The fast ferry to Nantucket takes just about one hour, while the traditional ferry ride is around two hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy the stunning ocean views.

  • Steamship Authority is another excellent option, known for its reliable service. They also allow you to bring your vehicle, making it ideal for those planning to explore Nantucket by car. Their ferries depart from Hyannis, and booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during the busy summer months.

  • Seastreak offers seasonal ferry services from New York City and New Bedford. The journey from New York City takes about six hours, and the one from New Bedford is about two hours, making this a great option for travelers coming directly from these locations.

Booking your ferry early, particularly for peak season, is key to securing your preferred departure time and ensuring a smooth trip.

Air Travel to Nantucket: Quick and Convenient

For those who prefer to fly, air travel to Nantucket is the fastest way to reach the island.

  • Cape Air offers daily flights from Boston, with a flight time of about 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those in the New England area.

  • JetBlue, Delta, and United all provide seasonal flights to Nantucket from major cities such as New York, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia. These flights typically take between one to two hours, making them a convenient option for those traveling from further afield.

If you prefer a more personalized experience, private charters are available from multiple locations. Companies like Tradewind Aviation offer charter flights, providing flexibility and a luxurious travel experience, tailored to your schedule.

Tips for Traveling to Nantucket in 2025

When planning how to get to Nantucket, keep a few travel tips in mind to make your journey as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

  • Weather Considerations: Nantucket weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter or early spring. While summer sees the island bustling with visitors, spring and fall offer milder weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for a more relaxed experience. For the best travel experience, it’s advisable to check the weather forecast and ferry or flight schedules before departure.

  • “Fog Happens”: If you’re traveling during the foggy season, it’s good to know that ferries are usually your most reliable option for getting to the island. In foggy conditions, flights may be delayed or canceled, but ferries can often still operate.

  • Booking in Advance: During peak season, it’s critical to book your ferry or flight tickets early. Nantucket sees a significant influx of visitors, especially during events like the Nantucket Wine & Food Festival and the Nantucket Film Festival, so securing your tickets in advance is highly recommended.

  • Nantucket Transportation Tips: Once on the island, there are several options for getting around. Nantucket has a well-organized public transportation system, known as The Wave, offering bus services to different parts of the island. For more flexibility, consider renting a bike, moped, or car. In downtown Nantucket, walking and biking are often the best ways to get around due to the limited parking.

Getting Around Nantucket Once You Arrive

Once you’ve made your way to the island, there are a variety of ways to explore Nantucket and make the most of your visit.

Public Transportation:

The Wave bus system is a great, affordable way to get around Nantucket. The service is free for the summer months, thanks to a state grant, and offers routes to all the key parts of the island. You can easily plan your trips using the mobile app or by purchasing tickets on the bus.

Bike Rentals:

Nantucket boasts a network of bike paths, making cycling an enjoyable and efficient way to get around. Several rental shops offer bikes for rent at affordable rates. This is one of the most popular options, as it allows you to explore the island at your own pace. Here are some vendors to consider:

Car Rentals: Car rentals are available at the Nantucket Memorial Airport and around town. While driving gives you the freedom to explore the island, keep in mind that parking can be limited, especially in the busy downtown area during the summer months.

Here are some car rental companies in Nantucket:

For convenience, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. This option is ideal if you want to avoid the hassle of parking.

Best Way to Get to Nantucket in 2025

No matter if you’re traveling by ferry or plane, getting to Nantucket in 2025 is easier than ever with various options catering to different needs. If you're looking for a scenic and relaxing trip, ferries to Nantucket offer a unique travel experience. If you’re in a rush, flying provides the quickest access to the island, allowing you to begin your island getaway within an hour or so.

Both options have their advantages, so the best way to get to Nantucket will depend on your preferences, schedule, and where you're traveling from.

Helpful Pages To Follow For Your Nantucket Trip

  • 🛥 Follow @hylinealerts on Twitter. They post up-to-date boat schedules and alerts based on the weather.

  • ❄️ Join @NantucketWeather on Facebook, where Blair Perkins gives his best travel predictions.

  • 📱Subscribe to @inquirerandmirror travel text alerts, featuring boat and plane cancellations and weather updates.

Ready to experience the charm of Nantucket? Start planning your trip today! At Great Point Properties, we offer a range of vacation rentals that allow you to enjoy the island to the fullest. From cozy cottages to luxurious estates, we’ve got the perfect accommodation waiting for you. Reach out today to book your stay and make your Nantucket visit unforgettable!