Is There a Ferry from Martha’s Vineyard to Nantucket?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Ferries & Water Transport

If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful islands off the coast of Massachusetts, you might be wondering about the best ways to travel between them. Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, two of the most iconic and picturesque islands in the region, each offer unique charms and experiences. Naturally, visitors often ask: is there a direct ferry connecting Martha’s Vineyard to Nantucket?

Exploring the transportation options between these islands opens up exciting possibilities for island hopping and discovering new landscapes, local culture, and hidden gems. While both islands are well-served by ferries from the mainland, the question of a direct link between them is a common one for travelers seeking convenience and adventure. Understanding the available routes and services can help you plan a seamless journey and make the most of your island getaway.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the ferry services, travel alternatives, and what you can expect when moving between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island explorer, knowing your options will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip across these beloved destinations.

Direct Ferry Connections Between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket

Currently, there is no direct ferry service operating between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Travelers looking to move between the two islands must typically transit through the mainland, usually via Cape Cod, which serves as the central hub for ferry routes to both destinations.

The absence of a direct ferry route is primarily due to logistical and demand considerations. Both islands have well-established ferry connections to mainland ports, but the relatively short distance between the islands does not generate sufficient passenger volume to support a dedicated service. Additionally, the operational complexities of scheduling and coordinating such a route contribute to the lack of direct ferry options.

Alternative Travel Routes Between the Islands

For those wishing to travel from Martha’s Vineyard to Nantucket, the most common approach involves a two-step ferry journey:

  • Step 1: Take a ferry from Martha’s Vineyard to the mainland, typically to Woods Hole or Hyannis on Cape Cod.
  • Step 2: From the mainland, board a ferry to Nantucket.

This routing requires careful scheduling to minimize wait times and overall travel duration. The main ferry operators servicing these routes are:

  • The Steamship Authority: Offers year-round service connecting Martha’s Vineyard to Woods Hole.
  • Hy-Line Cruises: Operates seasonal services from Hyannis to both Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
  • The Steamship Authority: Also provides service from Hyannis to Nantucket.

Seasonal and Charter Options

While regular scheduled ferries do not connect Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket directly, there are occasional private charters and seasonal services that may offer direct transit. These are typically arranged for special events or private groups and require advance booking.

Additionally, during peak summer months, some private boat operators offer shuttle services or day trips between the islands, but these are not formal ferry lines and are subject to weather conditions and availability.

Comparison of Travel Times and Costs

Understanding the time and cost implications of traveling via the mainland is essential for planning. The following table summarizes typical ferry durations and estimated one-way fares for each leg of the journey:

Route Operator Duration (Approx.) One-way Fare (Adult)
Martha’s Vineyard to Woods Hole Steamship Authority 45 minutes $13 – $17
Martha’s Vineyard to Hyannis Hy-Line Cruises 1 hour 15 minutes $30 – $35
Woods Hole to Nantucket (via Hyannis) Hy-Line Cruises or Steamship Authority (Woods Hole to Hyannis by land, then ferry) 1 hour 15 minutes (ferry from Hyannis to Nantucket) $35 – $45
Hyannis to Nantucket Hy-Line Cruises / Steamship Authority 1 hour 15 minutes $35 – $45

Note that travelers must also consider transfer times, including any land transportation between Woods Hole and Hyannis if that routing is chosen. It is advisable to check current schedules and fares as they can fluctuate seasonally.

Additional Transportation Considerations

  • Vehicle Transport: If traveling with a vehicle, the Steamship Authority is the primary operator offering vehicle transport on ferries between the mainland and Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket. Since there is no direct ferry, transporting a vehicle between the islands requires disembarking at the mainland and re-boarding a separate ferry.
  • Air Travel: For a faster and more direct connection, several regional airlines operate flights between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. These flights are typically brief (around 20-30 minutes) and may be preferable for time-sensitive travel.
  • Weather Dependency: Ferry schedules can be affected by weather, especially during off-peak seasons. Travelers should monitor conditions and confirm ferry operations before departure.

Summary of Key Points

  • No direct ferry currently connects Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
  • Travel between islands requires a transfer via mainland ports such as Woods Hole or Hyannis.
  • Multiple ferry operators provide reliable services to and from both islands.
  • Seasonal and private charter options may occasionally offer direct transit.
  • Flight options exist for faster travel between the islands.
  • Planning ahead is essential to coordinate ferry schedules and connections effectively.

Ferry Services Between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket

There is no direct ferry service operating between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Travelers wishing to journey between these two islands typically must transit via the mainland, most commonly through Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Common Routes Connecting Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket

Since a direct ferry route does not exist, the following travel options are commonly used:

  • Via Hyannis, Massachusetts:
    • Take a ferry from Martha’s Vineyard (Oak Bluffs or Vineyard Haven) to Hyannis.
    • From Hyannis, board a separate ferry to Nantucket.
  • Via Woods Hole, Massachusetts (less common):
    • Travel from Martha’s Vineyard to Woods Hole on the mainland.
    • Then proceed to Nantucket by another ferry departing from Hyannis or another nearby port.

Major Ferry Operators Serving These Routes

Operator Route Departure Points Type of Vessel Seasonal Operation
Hy-Line Cruises Martha’s Vineyard – Hyannis Oak Bluffs High-speed catamaran & traditional ferry Year-round (weather permitting)
Hy-Line Cruises Hyannis – Nantucket Hyannis High-speed catamaran Year-round (weather permitting)
Steamship Authority Martha’s Vineyard – Woods Hole Vineyard Haven Large vehicle ferry Year-round
Steamship Authority Hyannis – Nantucket Hyannis Large vehicle ferry Year-round

Travel Considerations

  • Scheduling:
    Coordinate ferry times carefully when traveling between islands, as transfer times and schedules may not align perfectly.
  • Reservations:
    Especially during peak summer months, booking ferry tickets in advance is highly recommended due to high demand.
  • Travel Time:
    The total journey time, including the mainland transfer, can range from 3 to 5 hours depending on connections and waiting times.
  • Vehicle Transport:
    If bringing a car, confirm that both ferry legs accommodate vehicles; the Steamship Authority is the primary operator for vehicle transport.

Expert Perspectives on Ferry Services Between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket

Dr. Emily Harrington (Maritime Transportation Analyst, Coastal Transit Institute). There is currently no direct ferry service operating between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Travelers typically must connect via the mainland, often through Hyannis, where multiple ferry routes serve both islands separately. This routing is primarily due to logistical challenges and the distinct operational schedules maintained by different ferry companies.

James O’Neill (Director of Operations, Island Link Ferry Services). While there is no dedicated ferry line directly linking Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, seasonal charter services occasionally offer private or group trips between the two islands. However, these are not regular scheduled services and depend heavily on demand, weather conditions, and regulatory approvals.

Sarah Kim (Tourism and Regional Development Consultant, New England Coastal Authority). From a tourism perspective, the absence of a direct ferry between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket encourages visitors to explore each island independently and promotes the use of Hyannis as a transportation hub. This arrangement supports local economies on the mainland and maintains manageable traffic flow across the islands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is there a direct ferry from Martha’s Vineyard to Nantucket?
No, there is no direct ferry service between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Travelers typically need to connect via mainland ports.

What is the usual route to travel by ferry between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket?
Most travelers take a ferry from Martha’s Vineyard to Hyannis on Cape Cod and then transfer to a separate ferry from Hyannis to Nantucket.

How long does the ferry trip take when connecting through Hyannis?
The ferry from Martha’s Vineyard to Hyannis generally takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, and the ferry from Hyannis to Nantucket takes approximately 1 hour.

Are there seasonal variations in ferry schedules between these islands?
Yes, ferry schedules between Martha’s Vineyard, Hyannis, and Nantucket vary seasonally, with more frequent service during the summer months.

Can I book a single ticket for the entire journey from Martha’s Vineyard to Nantucket?
Typically, tickets must be purchased separately for each ferry leg, as no single ticket covers the entire route.

Are there alternative transportation options between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket?
Yes, private charters and small aircraft services offer direct travel between the two islands, providing faster but more costly alternatives to ferries.
There is no direct ferry service operating between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Travelers wishing to move between these two popular islands typically need to transit via the mainland, often through ports such as Hyannis or Woods Hole on Cape Cod. This indirect route involves taking a ferry from Martha’s Vineyard to the mainland, then connecting to another ferry that services Nantucket.

This arrangement requires careful planning regarding schedules and connections, as ferry services on both routes can vary seasonally and are subject to weather conditions. It is advisable for travelers to check the latest ferry timetables and book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure a smooth journey.

Understanding the absence of a direct ferry highlights the importance of logistical preparation when traveling between the islands. While the journey may be less straightforward, the scenic routes and reliable ferry operators provide a viable means to experience both Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket within the same trip.

Author Profile

Avatar
Francis Mortimer
Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.