Boston Harbor Islands Ferry

The Boston Harbor Islands Ferry provides a convenient way to explore the scenic islands just off the coast of Boston. With ticket prices starting at $26.20 per person, visitors can enjoy a scenic 45-minute ride to Georges Island or a 30-minute trip to Spectacle Island. Once there, they’ll find a wealth of history, hiking trails, and ranger-guided programs to keep them entertained. But there’s more to discover about this unique ferry service and the islands it serves.

Contents show

Good To Know

The Boston Harbor Islands Ferry offers direct service to Georges Island and Spectacle Island, with departure times starting at 10 AM and running every 2 hours.
Ticket prices for the ferry start at $26.20 per person and are valid for one day with open return options.
Visitors can explore historic Fort Warren on Georges Island and enjoy hiking trails and scenic walks on both islands.
The ferry is wheelchair accessible, but some island areas may not be, and visitors should bring their own food and beverages.
Visitors should allow at least 4 hours for a full experience, including ferry rides, and must follow rules such as no smoking, drones, or littering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Boston Harbor Islands Ferry offers direct service to Georges Island or Spectacle Island, with prices starting at $26.20 per person.

Discover the Boston Harbor Islands with direct ferry service to Georges Island or Spectacle Island, starting at $26.20 per person.

It’s the largest recreation area in metro Boston, providing diverse activities. The non-refundable tickets are valid for one day.

Departure times vary, with ferries leaving for Georges Island at 10AM, 12PM, and 2PM, and for Spectacle Island at 10:30AM, 12:30PM, and 2:30PM.

Return ferries depart an hour after the original departures from Long Wharf. Tickets include open return, allowing visitors to stay as long as they’d like on the islands.

Looking for more options in Boston? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Ferry Details

Direct ferry service takes visitors to Georges Island or Spectacle Island. Ferries depart Long Wharf at specific times – 10AM, 12PM, and 2PM for Georges Island, and 10:30AM, 12:30PM, and 2:30PM for Spectacle Island. The return ferry leaves an hour after the original departure. An open return ticket is included, allowing flexibility in departure times.

| Departure | Georges Island | Spectacle Island |

|———–|—————-|——————|

| Morning | 10:00 AM | 10:30 AM |

| Midday | 12:00 PM | 12:30 PM |

| Afternoon | 2:00 PM | 2:30 PM |

The ferry ride takes around 45 minutes to Georges Island and 30 minutes to Spectacle Island.

Activities and Attractions

Visitors can explore the historic Civil War-era Fort Warren on Georges Island, a now-abandoned military fortification that offers a glimpse into the island’s past.

Both islands feature hiking trails and scenic walks, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the harbor.

Hiking trails and scenic walks on the islands immerse visitors in the natural beauty of the Boston Harbor.

The Visitor Center exhibits provide historical insights, while ranger-guided programs offer additional educational opportunities.

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply seeking a tranquil escape from the city, the Boston Harbor Islands offer a diverse range of activities and attractions for all to enjoy.

Accessibility and Amenities

Although the ferry is wheelchair accessible, some areas on the islands may not be fully accessible.

Visitors will find limited concessions on the islands, so they should plan to bring their own food and beverages. Alternatively, they can purchase items on the ferry.

It’s important to remember that visitors must carry off any trash they generate – littering is prohibited.

The Boston Harbor Islands are a natural environment, so visitors should dress appropriately and bring essentials like sunscreen and a hat.

With a bit of planning, everyone can enjoy the beauty and history of this unique recreation area.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

To visit the Boston Harbor Islands, travelers should first meet at Long Wharf North, near the Long Wharf Marriott Hotel.

Getting to the Meeting Point

The Long Wharf North, near the Long Wharf Marriott Hotel, serves as the meeting point for the Boston Harbor Islands Ferry. From here, visitors can easily access the ferry departure point.

| Getting There | Details |

| — | — |

| By Car | Parking available nearby for a fee. |

| By Public Transit | Take the Blue Line subway to the Aquarium station. |

| By Rideshare | Drop-off location is conveniently located. |

| By Water Taxi | Directly connect to the ferry meeting point. |

| On Foot | The meeting point is accessible on foot from nearby areas. |

Arrive at the meeting point with ample time to board the ferry and begin your adventure to the Boston Harbor Islands.

Prohibited Items

Several items are prohibited on the Boston Harbor Islands Ferry and during the visit to the islands.

These prohibited items include:

Smoking
Drones
Pets (except assistance dogs)
Alcohol, drugs, and glass objects

Visitors must also refrain from fishing, biking, littering, and making fires.

Bringing these prohibited items can disrupt the experience and endanger the islands’ delicate ecosystems.

Adhering to these rules helps maintain the islands’ natural beauty and ensures a safe and enjoyable visit for all.

Visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly and leave these items at home.

Recommended Items

What should visitors bring to make the most of their Boston Harbor Islands Ferry experience?

The recommended items include comfortable shoes for walking the islands’ trails, sunglasses and a hat to protect against the sun, and sunscreen to prevent sunburn.

Plus, weather-appropriate clothing is advised, as the islands’ climate can be unpredictable.

Carrying a refillable water bottle is also a good idea to stay hydrated during the visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cancel or Reschedule My Ferry Ticket?

Unfortunately, the ferry tickets are non-refundable. They are valid for a single day’s visit and cannot be rescheduled. Visitors should plan their trip carefully as unused tickets cannot be returned or exchanged.

Do I Need to Wear a Life Jacket on the Ferry?

No, passengers do not need to wear life jackets on the ferry. The ferries are fully equipped with safety features and life jackets are available if needed, but they are not required for the standard ferry ride.

Are There Restrooms Available on the Islands?

Yes, there are restrooms available on the islands. Visitors can find restroom facilities at the visitor centers and throughout the islands to accommodate their needs during their exploration of the Boston Harbor Islands.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Islands?

Visitors can bring their own food and drinks to the islands. There are limited concessions on the islands, so bringing a packed lunch or snacks is recommended. Food and beverages can also be purchased on the ferry.

Is There Wi-Fi or Cell Service on the Islands?

There is limited cell service on the islands, but no public Wi-Fi. Visitors should plan accordingly, as connectivity may be spotty. Bringing any necessary devices or communication tools fully charged is recommended for the Boston Harbor Islands experience.

The Sum Up

The Boston Harbor Islands Ferry offers a convenient and scenic way to explore Georges Island and Spectacle Island. With affordable ticket prices, flexible return options, and a range of activities and historic sites to enjoy, it’s a great option for a day trip from Boston. Just be sure to bring necessary items and check for any prohibited items before setting off on your island adventure.