Rider’s Guide

Looking for Information on Water Transit?

Whether you’re new to Boston, new to taking the many ferries, water shuttles, or water taxis in Greater Boston, or simply looking for information on a particular service or route, this rider’s guide will provide everything you need to ride the waves!

FAQs

Take a look at the frequently asked questions to help you navigate taking the boat in Boston!

  • There are several docks in and around Boston. For a comprehensive look at all of your options, or to find a dock closest to you, visit our Ferry Roundup to learn more.

  • Riding a ferry is much like taking a train or bus. Make sure you have your ticket ready, and that you arrive at the dock a few minutes before the scheduled departure. If you are using a special vacation ferry service, like the Provincetown Ferries, you may need to arrive earlier. Be sure to check the service provider’s website to see if they have a specific requirement.

    Depending on the ferry, it may take a few minutes before the ferry leaves the dock or before you are allowed off of the boat at your destination. The crew needs to tie the boat to the dock and set up the ramp to allow passengers to safely board and disembark.

    If you want to know something specific to taking the MBTA ferry, please refer to the MBTA’s Ferry Rider’s Guide for more information. Learn more about riding the Seaport Ferry on their website.

  • No, different ferry providers have different ticketing processes. The MBTA ferries use the mTicket app (the same as the Commuter Rail), and the Seaport Ferry uses the Seaport Ferry app. Private ferries, like the Provincetown and Salem ferries use prescheduled, online ticketing. Check the service provider’s website to be sure you are ready to ride.

  • Typically, water shuttles, which consistently makes trips from point A to point B on a fixed schedule, will allow you to ride either for free or by purchasing a one-way or roundtrip ticket. To know the specifics of how a particular shuttle operates, you’ll find this information on their website.

    Water taxis are different from shuttles in that they provide on-demand service, such as the Boston Water Taxi. They have a pre-defined service area of eligible pick-up/drop-off locations, but you tell them which stop to be picked up at and when. First, you purchase your fare, then you can call the taxi’s number to reserve your pick-up time and place or reserve your spot online. Water taxi companies will then ensure you arrive at your desired drop off spot in a timely manner. Make sure you provide the taxis with ample time when you call to schedule.

    Please note that these boats are much smaller than typical ferries and often require a step down from the dock—so be aware that they are not typically ADA-accessible, and entering and exiting the boat may be difficult for some passengers with limited mobility.

  • Yes! Riding a bike is one of the best ways to reach the ferry. All ferries that operate in Boston Harbor allow bicycles.

    Please note that the Provincetown Ferry has an additional fee for bikes.

  • All ferries that operate in Boston Harbor are accessible.

    Water taxis and shuttles often are not.

  • All ferries in Boston Harbor are equipped with ramps, making them both stroller- and wheelchair-friendly.

    Water taxis and shuttles do not usually have ramps, and you should inquire with the provider directly to find out.

Routes

Three new routes came to Boston Harbor in 2025! The MBTA Quincy Ferry, the MBTA Winthrop Ferry, and the Seaport/Pier 10 Ferry will create new ways to get around Greater Boston. Check out why each new route is so important and get a comprehensive look at all water transit routes and services in Boston. You’ll learn where to board, when to board, and how much to pay for your ride, take a look at our Ferry Roundup. Plan your trip today!

Destinations

The water transportation network in Greater Boston is ever-expanding to provide better mobility for commuting, taking day trips, and sightseeing. If you don’t know where you might take the boat, take inspiration from the many destinations connected by water transportation.

Where will you go?

  • Downtown Boston

    Whether you’re commuting to work, going to a Red Sox game, show, or visiting one of the many museums and historic site in Boston—or to simply hang out at great local restaurants—The ferry can provide a great alternative to driving that beats the traffic. Lovejoy Wharf, Long Wharf, Central Wharf, and Rowes Wharf all have ferry service, so make sure to check the Ferry Roundup to know which dock your ferry will stop at.

  • Logan Airport

    Taking a flight out of Logan this summer? Want to skip to the front of the security line? Then you might consider taking the ferry to or from the airport! The MBTA Hingham/Hull, Quincy, and Winthrop routes all stop at Logan’s Ferry dock, where a shuttle will bring you right to your terminal. Other shuttles and water taxis also provide service to Logan. Roundtrip ferry fare often beats the price of a rideshare or cab.

    Taking water transportation to Logan Airport also grants you the special privilege of skipping to the front of the TSA security line! When you arrive at the dock and board the shuttle to the terminals, ask the driver for a “Ticket to Skip.” Learn more about how to use this on Massport’s website.

  • Salem

    Famous for the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, Salem is a favorite destination for fans of all things “witchy.” In addition to the magic, Salem is a beautiful coastal city with excellent ocean views and is home to the Peabody-Essex Museum.

  • Encore Boston Harbor

    A luxury waterfront resort accessible by land and sea, Encore Boston Harbor is conveniently located just minutes from Logan International Airport; Boston's famed Back Bay, Seaport, North End, Financial and Theater Districts; and Cambridge's Harvard University and M.I.T.

    Catch a free water shuttle to Encore day or night from Long Wharf in downtown Boston. Additional dock space can be reserved for short-term reservations through Dockwa.

  • Boston Harbor Islands

    Boston Harbor Islands is a National and State Park with popular attractions such as Spectacle Island, Georges Island, Peddocks Island, Thompson Island, and many lighthouses and public parks.

    The islands are only accessible by ferry, making the trip a fun, scenic, and memorable way to travel there and back. Learn more about the ferry schedule on the Boston Harbor Islands website, which also includes information about camping and the history of the park!

  • Seaport District

    The Seaport District of Boston is accessible by boat through the Seaport Ferry with service from East Boston and North Station, MBTA’s Winthrop and Quincy ferries, and by water taxi. Whether you are headed to work, visiting the Boston Children’s Museum or the ICA, or are looking for a great lobster roll, there’s no better way to visit than cruising the Harbor.

  • Provincetown

    Massachusetts has a rich history, and Provincetown is certainly part of the story. The outermost community at the tip of our state, Provincetown is known as the spot where pilgrims first landed in 1620. Now, one of the most popular beach towns in the state, people gather for the beautiful beaches along the Cape Cod National Sea Shore, spotting whales on a whale watch cruise, celebrating individuality at the Pride parade, or visiting the many art galleries and history museums.

    Skip the dreaded Cape traffic and catch a ferry to Provincetown for your summer getaway! There are many options, including the Provincetown Ferry operated by Boston Harbor Cruises or the Provincetown Fast Ferry operated by Bay State Cruise Company.