Our Guide to Getting to Nantucket
Are you planning your vacation to Nantucket? Copley Group Nantucket has insider information to help you easily get to the island for your vacation as well as tips to getting around while you're here.
Flying to Nantucket
Despite its remote location 30 miles at sea, Nantucket has the second-busiest commercial airport in Massachusetts and is easily accessible by major and local airlines and aircraft charters. Convenient flights are available year-round from airports in Boston, Hyannis, Martha’s Vineyard and Westchester/White Plains. Jet Blue, Delta, American and United Airlines operate seasonally from JFK, LaGuardia, Newark and Washington, DC, and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport.
Tradewind Aviation is a great option for those looking to book a private charter or a shared charter.
Ferry Services to Nantucket
Two ferry lines--Hy-Line Cruises and the Steamship Authority-- provide convenient, year-round service from Hyannis to Nantucket. Both run high-speed passenger catamarans with a travel time of one hour. The Steamship Authority also runs a traditional car-and-passenger ferry, with a 2 ¼ hour cruise time. Secure, on-site parking is available at both terminals for a nominal fee. Freedom Cruise Line in Harwich Port and Seastreak in New Bedford provide seasonal high-speed ferry service to the island. A seasonal inter-island ferry operated by Hy-Line Cruises runs between Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard from late May to early October.
Nantucket Bus & Train Tips
Getting to Nantucket from New York City and Boston is a breeze, thanks to commuter bus and train service to the Hyannis Transportation Center, two blocks from the harbor. Plymouth & Brockton Bus Line provides convenient service from Boston’s South Station and Logan Airport. Peter Pan/Bonanza Bus Lines departs from New York (Port Authority), with an approximate 6 hour travel time. A seasonal train, the CapeFLYER, operated by Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority, offers convenient weekend passenger service from Boston to Hyannis.
Nantucket Regional Transit Authority Shuttle
Nantucket Regional Transit Authority operates “The Wave,” a year-round shuttle bus servicing multiple routes throughout the island, including transit to Jetties and Surfside Beaches, and a Fast Ferry Connector from Fairgrounds Road and the airport. Shuttles depart from Nantucket Town and travel to mid-island and outlying areas, looping back to Town. All buses are handicap-accessible and accommodate two bikes on a first-come, first-served basis. Passes may be purchased aboard all buses or at the Greenhound Building on Washington Street.
Taxis & Auto Rentals on Nantucket
Both taxi and car rental services are available on island year-round, with convenient locations in Town and at the Airport. Nantucket is small and extremely walkable, so please consider leaving your car in Hyannis, where both ferry lines operate secure lots. Parking can be difficult on island, particularly in high season, and it is rather expensive to ferry your car back and forth.
Biking on Nantucket
What better way to experience Nantucket than by bike? At 14 miles long by 3 ½ miles wide—with predominantly smooth terrain (no hills!) and spectacular vistas, biking on the “Grey Lady” is a veritable delight. Twelve designated trails—over 32 miles of paths—traverse the island, with many suitable for the novice biker and families. Our bike shops will provide everything you need for your adventure—from a map and helmet to a suitable, properly-maintained bike built exclusively for the island landscape. Most rental shops also provide free roadside service. Sustainable transportation, coupled with a great workout. “Get on your bike and ride!”