The Ultimate Guide to a Boston to Nantucket Day Trip (2025)
Dreaming of cobblestone streets, grey-shingled houses, and the salty air of a historic whaling town? A day trip from Boston to Nantucket can feel like stepping back in time. But with the island’s “faraway land” reputation, you’re probably asking: is it even possible to do in a single day? And more importantly, is it worth it? The short answer is a resounding yes, but only with careful planning. It’s a long, rewarding day, and this guide has everything you need to make this unforgettable island escape a reality in 2025.
Quick Facts: Boston to Nantucket Day Trip
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Distance (One-Way) | ~100 miles (70 miles land + 30 miles sea) |
| Total Travel Time (One-Way) | 3.5 – 4.5 hours |
| Best Transportation Method | Bus from Boston to Hyannis + High-Speed Ferry |
| Estimated Day Trip Cost (per person) | $200 – $350 |
| Best Time to Go | June – September (Weekdays: Tue-Thu are best) |
How to Get from Boston to Nantucket: A Step-by-Step Guide
This is the most critical part of your planning. Let’s be crystal clear: There is no direct, regularly scheduled public ferry from Boston to Nantucket. Don’t let that stop you! The journey is a straightforward two-step process that’s easily managed.
Step 1: Getting from Boston to the Hyannis Ferry Terminal
Your first leg is getting to Cape Cod, the departure point for all Nantucket ferries. You have two main options.
By Car
The drive from Boston to Hyannis is about 70 miles. Without traffic, this takes around 1.5 hours, but during peak summer season, expect 2.5 hours or more. If you drive, you’ll need to park at the ferry terminals. Both Hy-Line Cruises and the Steamship Authority have lots, with parking costing between $15 – $40 per calendar day.
By Bus
For a stress-free day trip, the bus is our top recommendation. Companies like Peter Pan Bus Lines and Plymouth & Brockton run frequent routes from Boston’s South Station directly to the Hyannis Transportation Center, a short walk from the ferry docks. The journey takes about 2 hours and costs approximately $25-$40 each way. You can relax, avoid the notorious Cape traffic, and save on parking fees.
Step 2: Taking the Ferry from Hyannis to Nantucket
Once in Hyannis, you’re just an hour away from your island destination. For a day trip, the high-speed ferry is the only practical choice. The traditional 2+ hour ferry is wonderful for overnight stays but simply takes up too much of your precious time.
| Operator | Duration | Adult Round-Trip Cost (Approx.) | Pros |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hy-Line Cruises (High-Speed) | 1 Hour | ~$98 | More amenities onboard, often more departure times. |
| Steamship Authority (High-Speed) | 1 Hour | ~$81 | Slightly more budget-friendly option. |
Is a Nantucket Day Trip from Boston Worth It?
This is the million-dollar question. With nearly 8 hours of total travel time, is a day on the “Grey Lady” truly worth the effort?
- The “Yes” Argument: Absolutely. Nantucket’s historic charm is unmatched. The downtown area is a perfectly preserved National Historic Landmark, and its compact size makes it ideal for a day of exploration. You get to experience the magical atmosphere, enjoy beautiful scenery, and have a true escape from the city without the high cost and hassle of finding overnight accommodation on one of the country’s most exclusive islands.
- The “But” Argument: It is undeniably a long and expensive day. You will only be able to scratch the surface of what the island has to offer. If your goal is to relax and see multiple towns and beaches at a leisurely pace, an overnight trip is better.
Our Verdict: For the efficient traveler who plans ahead and doesn’t mind an early start, a day trip to Nantucket is an incredible and worthwhile experience that delivers a powerful dose of New England magic.
Top 5 Things to Do on a Nantucket Day Trip
With about 6-8 hours on the island, you need to be strategic. Here are five fantastic activities that are easily achievable on a day trip.
- Explore Historic Downtown: This is non-negotiable. Alight from the ferry and wander straight into the 19th century. Walk the famous cobblestones of Main Street, browse the high-end boutiques, and admire the perfectly preserved whaling captains’ homes. Don’t miss the Nantucket Whaling Museum (~$25 admission), which provides fascinating context for the island’s history in about 1.5-2 hours.
- Rent a Bike to Brant Point Light: Just a short, flat, and scenic 10-minute bike ride from town, Brant Point Light is the quintessential Nantucket lighthouse. It’s one of the most photographed spots on the island and a perfect, quick adventure. Bike rentals are available right near the ferry docks for about $40 a day.
- Ride the WAVE Bus to Siasconset (‘Sconset): To see a different side of the island, hop on the WAVE bus ($3 per ride or $8 for a day pass) for a 30-minute ride to ‘Sconset. This tiny, idyllic village is famous for its rose-covered cottages and the stunningly beautiful ‘Sconset Bluff Walk, a public footpath that meanders along the cliff edge.
- Have a Drink at Cisco Brewers: A perennial island favorite, Cisco Brewers is a hub of fun with a brewery, distillery, and winery all on one site. They offer a free shuttle from downtown. Grab a craft beer, enjoy the live music, and soak in the lively atmosphere. It’s a great way to feel like a local.
- Grab an Ice Cream at The Juice Bar: No trip to Nantucket is complete without a stop here. The line might snake down the street, but their homemade ice cream and waffle cones (made fresh before your eyes) are legendary. It’s the perfect sweet ending to your afternoon.
Sample Boston to Nantucket Day Trip Itinerary
Here’s a look at how a perfectly planned, action-packed day could unfold:
- 6:00 AM: Depart Boston’s South Station via Peter Pan or Plymouth & Brockton bus.
- 8:00 AM: Arrive in Hyannis. Walk to the ferry terminal, grab a coffee and a pastry.
- 9:00 AM: Your high-speed ferry departs for Nantucket. Enjoy the ocean views!
- 10:00 AM: Arrive on Nantucket! Step off the ferry and onto Straight Wharf.
- 10:15 AM – 1:00 PM: Explore the historic downtown core. Wander Main Street and then immerse yourself in history at the Whaling Museum.
- 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Grab a delicious and hefty sandwich for lunch at Something Natural.
- 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Choose Your Adventure! Either bike the easy path to Brant Point Light for photos or take the WAVE bus to ‘Sconset to see the charming cottages.
- 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Head back to town for some last-minute souvenir shopping and join the famous line for a well-deserved ice cream cone from The Juice Bar.
- 6:00 PM: Your return ferry departs from Nantucket.
- 7:00 PM: Arrive back in Hyannis.
- 7:45 PM: Your bus departs for Boston.
- ~9:45 PM: Arrive back at South Station in Boston, tired but full of amazing memories.
Where to Eat (Day Trip Friendly)
For a day trip, you want food that is quick, iconic, and delicious. Save the three-hour fine dining for an overnight stay.
For a Quick & Classic Lunch ($)
- Something Natural: A bit of a walk from town, but their legendary sandwiches are served on fresh-baked bread and are big enough to share.
- Provisions: The perfect spot to grab a gourmet sandwich or salad before or after your ferry, located conveniently near the docks.
For an Iconic Treat ($)
- The Juice Bar: As mentioned, this is a must-do. The line moves faster than you think, and the reward is pure, creamy bliss.
For a Casual Sit-Down Meal ($$)
- Straight Wharf Restaurant: While the main dining room is upscale, their bar menu offers a more casual (and faster) way to enjoy their classic seafood dishes with a view of the harbor.
Insider Tips for a Perfect Day Trip
- Book Everything in Advance: This is crucial. Ferry and bus tickets sell out weeks, sometimes months, in advance for summer weekends. Book online as soon as you know your date.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking on historic, uneven cobblestone streets. Leave the heels at home.
- Pack Layers: Nantucket is a maritime environment. It is often 10 degrees cooler and much windier than Boston, even on a sunny day. A light jacket or sweater is a must.
- Download the WAVE Bus Schedule: If you plan to visit ‘Sconset or another area outside of town, have the bus schedule on your phone so you can plan your return trip efficiently.
- Bring a Portable Charger: A long day of navigating with maps and taking photos will drain your phone battery faster than you think.
What to Pack Checklist
- [ ] Comfortable walking shoes
- [ ] Sunscreen
- [ ] Hat and sunglasses
- [ ] A light jacket, windbreaker, or sweater
- [ ] Reusable water bottle
- [ ] Portable phone charger
- [ ] Camera
- [ ] Pre-booked ferry/bus tickets (digital or printed)
Estimated Day Trip Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
| Expense Item | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Round-trip Bus (Boston-Hyannis) | $50 | $80 |
| Round-trip High-Speed Ferry | $81 | $98 |
| Lunch & Snacks | $30 | $50 |
| Activities (Museum or Bike Rental) | $25 | $40 |
| Total Per Person (Approx.) | $186 | $268 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Nantucket worth visiting for a day?
Yes, absolutely! It’s worth it if you appreciate historic towns and stunning coastal scenery and don’t mind a long but rewarding travel day. Careful planning is key to maximizing your 6 to 8 hours on the island.
How long is the ferry from Boston to Nantucket?
There is no direct ferry. The high-speed ferry from Hyannis to Nantucket takes exactly 1 hour. The entire journey from Boston, including the bus or drive to Hyannis, takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours each way.
How much is the ferry to Nantucket from Boston?
The high-speed ferry ticket from Hyannis will cost you approximately $81-$98 for an adult round-trip ticket. Remember to also budget for the bus or gas/parking to get from Boston to Hyannis, which adds another $50-$80.
Is Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket better for a day trip?
It depends on your travel style. Martha’s Vineyard is larger, offers more variety with its distinct towns (lively Oak Bluffs vs. stately Edgartown), and is slightly quicker and cheaper to get to. Nantucket is smaller, feels more remote and exclusive, and is renowned for its perfectly preserved, cohesive 19th-century architecture. For pure historic charm in a compact, walkable area, choose Nantucket.
TL;DR: The Bottom Line
For those who love a quick summary, here’s the deal:
- There’s no direct ferry from Boston. You must go to Hyannis first.
- The journey is long: ~4 hours each way by bus and high-speed ferry.
- Book everything in advance, especially the high-speed ferry (1-hour trip).
- The day trip is expensive but worth it for a taste of the island’s unique charm.
- Stick to the walkable downtown area and one other activity (like biking to Brant Point or taking the bus to ‘Sconset) to make the most of your time.
