Cape Air or Ferry to Nantucket in mid-April

Question

We will be traveling to Nantucket mid-April leaving from Boston. I like the idea of Cape Air as it is fast and easy from Boston but worry about the potential of bad weather grounding the flight. At that time of year, is just safer in terms of delays to drive to Hyannis and take the ferry? We wouldn't want to bring a car with us so would need to park it somewhere in Hyannis while we are on Nantucket.

Thoughts?

Answer

When traveling to Nantucket in mid-April, you have two main options: flying with Cape Air or taking the ferry from Hyannis. Each option has its pros and cons, especially depending on the weather conditions at that time of year. Here's a breakdown of both options:

Cape Air (Flight from Boston):

Cape Air offers a quick and convenient flight from Boston to Nantucket. The flight takes about 45 minutes, making it a faster option compared to the ferry. However, flights to Nantucket are subject to weather conditions, especially in April when spring weather can be unpredictable. Low visibility, high winds, or storms could cause delays or cancellations. While Cape Air generally has a good track record for operating in various conditions, the smaller planes can be more susceptible to weather disruptions compared to larger commercial flights.

Pros: Fast, direct, and relatively easy.
Cons: Weather-related cancellations or delays are possible, particularly in April when storms or fog can occur frequently on the Cape and Islands.

Ferry from Hyannis:

Driving to Hyannis and taking the ferry is another popular option. The ferry ride typically takes about 1 hour to reach Nantucket. While ferries are generally less susceptible to weather-related delays than small planes, rough seas or strong winds can still occasionally disrupt service in April. However, ferries are often more reliable in terms of getting you to Nantucket, and they run more frequently during the spring months, including mid-April. The drive from Boston to Hyannis takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, so while it adds travel time, the ferry provides a scenic and calm ride.

Pros: Less weather-dependent than flying; scenic ride to Nantucket.
Cons: The drive to Hyannis adds time; ferry schedules may be affected by rough seas (but less likely than flight delays).

Parking in Hyannis:

If you decide to take the ferry, you'll need to park your car in Hyannis. There are several parking lots near the ferry terminal, including both short-term and long-term options. The Steamship Authority offers a large parking lot, but it can fill up during busy periods, especially in the summer. In April, you should have no problem finding parking. Rates for parking at the Steamship Authority lot are generally reasonable, but it’s always a good idea to confirm the fees and availability beforehand. Some private lots also offer parking, usually with a shuttle to the terminal.

Parking Options: Steamship Authority parking lot, private lots around Hyannis, and shuttle services to the terminal.
Cost: Parking costs around $15-$20 per day at the Steamship Authority lot, with some private lots offering slightly different rates.

Which Option is Safer?

If you're concerned about potential delays, the ferry may be a safer option in terms of reliability, particularly during the spring when weather can be more unpredictable. While ferries can still face rough conditions, they tend to operate more consistently than small planes in inclement weather. However, if you’re looking for a quick trip and are comfortable with the possibility of delays, Cape Air can still be a great option—just be prepared for the potential of weather-related disruptions.

Final Thoughts:

If your primary concern is minimizing the chance of delays or cancellations, the ferry is likely the safer option in mid-April. It allows for more predictability, especially when the weather is variable. However, if you're looking for a faster, more direct route and are willing to accept the risk of possible delays due to weather, flying with Cape Air can be an exciting and efficient way to reach Nantucket. In either case, it's best to have a flexible schedule in case of any unforeseen weather-related changes.

Hope this helps you make a decision for your Nantucket trip! Enjoy your time on the island!