Provincetown & Cape Cod High Speed Ferry to/from Boston

If you’re thinking about hopping from Boston to Cape Cod without the hassle of driving or the unpredictability of traffic, the High-Speed Catamaran service might catch your eye. We’ve looked into this popular ferry experience to give you an honest, detailed look at what it offers, who it’s best for, and what to keep in mind.

What we really like about this trip is how quick and smooth it is—90 minutes of sailing that cuts down travel time significantly compared to driving. Plus, the luxury features onboard, like satellite TV and a full cash bar, make the journey more than just transportation. On the flip side, some reviews mention booking frustrations and the importance of arriving early, which are worth considering before you set out.

This experience suits travelers who value comfort, scenic views, and efficiency. Whether you’re heading to Provincetown for a weekend getaway, planning a day trip, or simply want to avoid traffic congestion, this ferry can be a solid choice. But it’s good to keep in mind that it’s weather-dependent and requires advance planning, especially if you’re doing a round trip.

Key Points

• Fast and scenic: The ferry takes only about 90 minutes, offering views of Boston Skyline and Harbor Islands.
• Comfort and amenities: Enjoy satellite TV, a full cash bar, and onboard concierge services to help plan your Cape Cod visit.
• Booking tips: Reserve in advance, especially on popular weekends, to secure your spot.
• Costs and tickets: Single tickets cost around $64.90, but remember you need separate tickets for round trips.
• Weather considerations: Cancellations due to poor weather are possible, but you’ll be offered a new date or a refund.
• Board early: Arriving 30 minutes prior helps avoid missing the boat, as late arrivals may be left behind.

The Experience: What It’s Really Like

Let’s walk through what you can expect when you board the Provincetown High-Speed Ferry. Starting at Long Wharf in Boston, you’ll want to arrive at least 30 minutes early—the ferry departs promptly, and late arrivals risk missing out, as noted by travelers who’ve experienced booking hiccups or tight schedules.

Once aboard on the Salacia, the largest and fastest passenger catamaran in the U.S., you’ll immediately notice the modern, spacious design. The ship features a computerized ride stabilization system, which is a fancy way of saying the trip is pretty smooth even if the water isn’t perfectly calm. Many reviews mention how comfortable and clean the vessel is, providing a nice environment to relax during the roughly 90-minute crossing.

The onboard amenities add a layer of convenience. There’s plenty of space to sit and enjoy the ride, with satellite TV providing some entertainment. A full cash bar serves drinks and snacks, including sandwiches, fruits, and beverages—perfect for a quick refresh before you land. Just remember to bring cash, as credit card readers sometimes don’t work at sea.

During the sail, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of Boston’s skyline and the Boston Harbor Islands. Several reviews highlight how stunning the scenery is, especially if the weather is clear. It’s the kind of ride that makes the journey feel part of the adventure rather than just transportation.

The Destination: Provincetown and Cape Cod

Once you arrive in Provincetown, you’ll find a charming town packed with art galleries, shops, restaurants, and beaches. Many travelers rave about how picturesque and lively the town is, making this ferry more than just a way to get there. The whole point is to enjoy Cape Cod’s coastal vibe, with the ferry acting as a scenic gateway.

If you’re planning a round trip, just keep in mind you’ll need to buy two separate one-way tickets—one from Boston to Provincetown and another back. This setup allows flexibility but can be a little confusing if you’re not paying attention. Several users have recommended buying tickets early and confirming your outbound and inbound times to avoid last-minute surprises.

Some reviews point out that the experience is quite smooth, with friendly crew members and helpful concierge staff. However, a few travelers mention booking frustrations or delays, so patience and early planning are key.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $64.90 per person, this ferry isn’t the cheapest way to reach Cape Cod. But when you consider the time savings—just an hour and a half—plus the comfort of traveling on a modern vessel, it offers good value. It’s especially appealing if you’d rather avoid the hassle of parking and traffic in Boston or Cape Cod.

Some reviews find the experience to be well-organized and reasonably priced, particularly praising the comfortable seating and onboard service. The full concierge desk is handy for planning your trip further, whether that’s booking local activities or dining options.

That said, there’s no included food or beverages—the onboard selection is available for purchase. If you’re hungry or thirsty, plan for extra cash and perhaps bring some snacks of your own.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the ferry offers a lot, there are practical considerations to keep in mind. Weather is a big factor; cancellations are possible if seas are rough, and you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. This makes it essential to keep an eye on the forecast if your schedule is tight.

Arriving early is critical—boardings begin 30 minutes before departure. Several reviews highlight the importance of punctuality; missing the boat means losing your ticket and having to rebook at your own expense.

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends or during peak season, as trips often sell out. You can book through the provider or third-party services like Viator, but be aware that some users have experienced booking issues or frustrations with customer service.

Transport to and from the ferry terminals isn’t included. In Boston, parking garages are available near Long Wharf, but fees apply. In Provincetown, the ferry departs from MacMillan Pier, which is walkable from the town center.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:
– Fast, scenic, and comfortable ride—perfect for avoiding Cape Cod traffic.
– Modern vessel with amenities like satellite TV and a cash bar.
– Friendly staff and helpful concierge service.
– Breathtaking views of Boston and Cape Cod Bay.

Cons:
– No food or drinks included, so bring cash for onboard purchases.
– Weather-dependent; trips can be canceled in rough seas.
– Need to plan and book early to secure tickets, especially for round trips.
– Boarding is strict about timing; late arrivals may miss the boat.
– Some reviews mention booking frustrations or customer service issues.

Who Should Consider This Ferry?

This trip is ideal for travelers who value speed, comfort, and scenic views over budget. It’s especially suited for those who want a stress-free way to reach Cape Cod without worrying about traffic, parking, or long drives. If you’re visiting Boston and want a quick escape to Provincetown or other parts of Cape Cod, this ferry is a convenient option.

It can also work well for day-trippers, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed, enjoyable journey. But if you’re traveling with young children or need absolute flexibility, make sure to factor in the early boarding times and weather considerations.

FAQ

Should I reserve my tickets in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially on weekends and during peak times, since trips can sell out.

Where does the ferry depart from in Boston?
The ferry leaves from 1 Long Wharf in Boston. Arrive at least 30 minutes early for boarding.

Is parking available near the Boston departure point?
Yes, there are two garages: Harbor Garage at 70 E. India Row and Rowes Wharf Garage at 30 Rowes Wharf. Parking fees apply.

Can I get a round-trip ticket?
You need to purchase two separate one-way tickets—one from Boston to Provincetown and another from Provincetown back to Boston.

What amenities are on board?
The vessel features satellite TV, a full cash bar, restrooms, and comfortable seating.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for onboard purchases, comfortable shoes, a light jacket or sweater, sunscreen, sunglasses, and your camera or binoculars.

Is this experience suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the ferry can be suitable for travelers with children who are comfortable on boats and can adhere to early boarding times.

What if the weather turns bad?
Trips may be canceled due to severe weather. If that happens, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Provincetown & Cape Cod High Speed Ferry stands out as a quick, comfortable way to move between Boston and Cape Cod. The scenic views, onboard amenities, and friendly staff make it a compelling choice for travelers looking to maximize their time and minimize stress. It’s particularly suited for those who don’t mind planning ahead and want to escape the drive in favor of a relaxing sea voyage.

If you’re ready to skip the traffic, enjoy some beautiful water views, and arrive refreshed in Provincetown, this ferry could just be your best bet. Just remember to book early, arrive on time, and bring some cash for the onboard treats.

Happy sailing!