Boston

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Ferry

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Overview of Bostonโ€™s Ferry System

Bostonโ€™s ferry system connects the city with key locations around Boston Harbor, including nearby islands, neighborhoods, and coastal towns. It is a popular mode of transportation for commuters, tourists, and residents alike, offering stunning views of the city skyline and harbor.

The ferry system is divided into two main categories:

  1. MBTA Commuter Ferries: These ferries are part of Bostonโ€™s public transit system and connect Boston with nearby towns like Hingham, Hull, and Charlestown.
  2. Private and Seasonal Ferries: These include ferries to the Boston Harbor Islands and other tourist destinations.

Key Ferry Routes

Here are the primary ferry routes in Boston:

1. MBTA Commuter Ferry Routes

  • Charlestown Ferry (F4):

    • Route: Long Wharf (Downtown Boston) โ†” Charlestown Navy Yard
    • Duration: ~10 minutes
    • Landmarks: USS Constitution Museum, Bunker Hill Monument
    • Schedule: Operates daily, with ferries running every 15-30 minutes during peak hours.
    • Cost: $3.70 per trip (one-way); free transfers with certain MBTA passes.

  • Hingham/Hull Ferry (F1):

    • Route: Long Wharf (Downtown Boston) โ†” Hingham Shipyard โ†” Hull
    • Duration: ~30-45 minutes
    • Landmarks: Nantasket Beach (Hull), Hingham Harbor
    • Schedule: Operates daily, with more frequent service during weekday commuter hours.
    • Cost: $9.75 per trip (one-way); discounted rates for seniors, children, and monthly pass holders.

  • Hingham Direct Ferry:

    • Route: Rowes Wharf (Downtown Boston) โ†” Hingham Shipyard
    • Duration: ~35 minutes
    • Schedule: Limited service, primarily during weekday commuter hours.
    • Cost: $9.75 per trip (one-way).

2. Boston Harbor Islands Ferries

  • Route: Long Wharf (Downtown Boston) โ†” Spectacle Island โ†” Georges Island
  • Duration: ~20-45 minutes, depending on the destination.
  • Landmarks: Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park, historic Fort Warren (Georges Island), hiking trails, and beaches.
  • Schedule: Seasonal (May through October), with ferries running every 30-60 minutes.
  • Cost: $24 for adults (round trip); $17 for children (ages 3-11), seniors, and students. Children under 3 ride free.

3. Salem Ferry (Seasonal)

  • Route: Long Wharf (Downtown Boston) โ†” Salem
  • Duration: ~50 minutes
  • Landmarks: Salem Witch Museum, Peabody Essex Museum, historic Salem waterfront.
  • Schedule: Seasonal (May through October), with multiple daily departures.
  • Cost: $27.50 for adults (one-way); $22 for children, seniors, and military personnel.

Schedules

  • MBTA Ferries: Operate year-round, with reduced service on weekends and holidays. Peak hours are typically 6:00 AMโ€“9:00 AM and 4:00 PMโ€“7:00 PM on weekdays.
  • Seasonal Ferries: Operate from late spring to early fall, with schedules varying by operator and destination. Check the specific ferry operatorโ€™s website for up-to-date schedules.

Ticketing and How to Purchase Tickets

  1. MBTA Ferries:

    • Tickets can be purchased:
      • Online via the MBTA mTicket app (available for iOS and Android).
      • At ferry terminals (ticket kiosks or ticket counters).
      • Onboard the ferry (cash or card, though onboard purchases may not be available on all routes).
    • Monthly MBTA passes (e.g., the LinkPass) include ferry access for certain routes.

  2. Boston Harbor Islands Ferries:

    • Tickets can be purchased:
      • Online at the Boston Harbor Islands website.
      • At the Boston Harbor Cruises ticket booth at Long Wharf.

  3. Salem Ferry:

    • Tickets can be purchased:
      • Online at the Salem Ferry website.
      • At the ticket booth at Long Wharf or Salem Ferry Terminal.

Onboarding Procedures

  1. Arrive Early: Arrive at least 15-20 minutes before departure, especially during peak hours or tourist seasons.
  2. Boarding Process:
    • Present your ticket (digital or printed) to the ferry staff.
    • Follow instructions for seating and safety.
    • For ferries to the Boston Harbor Islands, you may need to queue in designated lines for specific destinations.
  3. Accessibility: Most ferries are wheelchair accessible. If you require assistance, notify the staff in advance.

Tips and Considerations

  1. Weather: Ferry schedules may be affected by inclement weather, especially for seasonal routes. Check for updates before traveling.
  2. Tourist Attractions:
    • The Charlestown Ferry is ideal for visiting the USS Constitution, Bunker Hill Monument, and Charlestown Navy Yard.
    • The Boston Harbor Islands Ferries provide access to outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and exploring historic sites.
    • The Salem Ferry is perfect for a day trip to Salem, known for its rich history and Halloween-themed attractions.
  3. Photography: Bring a camera or smartphone to capture stunning views of the Boston skyline, harbor, and islands.
  4. Food and Drinks: Some ferries have snack bars, but itโ€™s a good idea to bring your own refreshments, especially for longer trips.
  5. Commuter Discounts: Frequent commuters can save money with MBTA monthly passes or multi-ride tickets.
  6. Seasonal Crowds: During summer and fall, ferries to the Boston Harbor Islands and Salem can be crowded. Book tickets in advance to secure your spot.

Connections to Local Sites and Activities

  • Long Wharf: Located in the heart of Boston, Long Wharf is a short walk from Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, the New England Aquarium, and the Rose Kennedy Greenway.
  • Charlestown Navy Yard: Home to the USS Constitution (โ€œOld Ironsidesโ€) and the Boston National Historical Park.
  • Hingham and Hull: Great for exploring coastal towns, beaches, and local dining.
  • Boston Harbor Islands: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and families looking for a day trip.

Additional Resources

By using Bostonโ€™s ferry system, youโ€™ll not only enjoy a convenient mode of transportation but also experience the city and its surroundings from a unique perspective. Whether youโ€™re commuting or sightseeing, the ferries offer a memorable way to explore Boston!