Ferry Service & Boats To Boston
Whether getting around or passing through, Boston is an everyday challenge that many drivers dread.
Wouldn’t it be refreshing to arrive at your destination feeling relaxed and looking forward to the rest of the day? If you are excited to see the sights and experience all that Boston has to offer while staying cool, calm, and collected, water transportation is the way to go. Get out of the traffic jam and get out on the water!
Arriving in Boston
Logan International Airport is an extremely busy transportation hub. Perennially hectic, both coming and going, it can be frustrating, confusing, and just plain overwhelming. If a ten-minute boat ride sounds better than sitting in endless traffic, you’re in luck; the Boston Water Taxi is fast, economical, and uncomplicated. Once you’re free to make your way to your assigned baggage claim, board courtesy shuttle bus #66, call while on your way, and show the captain your e-ticket.
Bonus: Luggage storage for exploring before or after hotel check-in!
Take the ferry to the beach
Boston’s visitors find that the low-cost public ferry service is a great way to see the Boston Harbor Islands on the way to Nantasket Beach in Hull via Pemberton Point. Popular with commuters, and colloquially known at the T, Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority Ferry Service (MBTA) is one of only two US public transit agencies that operates all five types of mass transit, including ferry service. MBTA’s Hingham/Hull Commuter Ferry travels between Boston, Logan International Airport, Hingham, and Hull, making for an economical, cool, and headache-free trip to the beach on a hot summer day.
Historic destination
Salem, Massachusetts is more than just witches: this historical waterfront town is home to the Peabody Essex Museum, the House of Seven Gables, restaurants and shops, and yes, witches. In less than an hour, the 92’ vessel Nathaniel Bowditch will take you from Long Wharf to Salem. The Combo ticket includes hop on-hop off trolley rides in Salem and round trip passage on the ferry.
Winthrop and Yirell Beaches
Running from Squantum Point Park/Marina Bay, Quincy to Winthrop, the Marina Bay Ferry makes in-between stops at the New England Aquarium, Boston Seaport, and the Boston Financial District. Yirell Beach offers family-friendly events during the summer months.
Charlestown Inner Harbor Ferry
From Long Wharf South, this ferry stays within Boston Harbor proper, running to the Charlestown Navy Yard. Operated by MBTA, it’s a favorite for sightseers heading to the USS Constitution. Launched in 1797, she is the world’s oldest ship still afloat.
Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park
Visitors to this multi-island recreational area are transported by Boston Harbor City Cruises. From Long Wharf, ferries depart for Spectacle and Thompson Islands in spring; Spectacle and George’s Islands are serviced in summer. Once you have arrived via ferry, take a shuttle between the Harbor Islands and enjoy opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and birding; scheduled educational programming and camping details can be found on the Park Service website.
Boston to Provincetown
Fast-ferry service to Ptown, at the tip of Cape Cod, departs from Lovejoy and Fan Wharfs. This 90-minute cruise on the 100’ catamaran Provincetown IV can reach speeds of 40 knots. The ferry is accessible, allows dogs, and accommodates bicycles, but not cars.
A Room With A View Of Boston Harbor
Now that you've decided on a trip to Boston, book a room with a view of Boston Harbor right here at the Battery Wharf Hotel Boston Waterfront.