Frequently Asked Questions

Are reservations for the Provincetown Ferry recommended?

We strongly recommend that you reserve your trip, especially on weekends, holidays and theme weeks. Trips often sell out.

What kind of ferry is it?

Our primary Ptown Ferry vessel Salacia is one of the largest and fastest passenger-only catamarans in the northeast. She’s filled with comfortable interior amenities and travels at up to 40 knots, getting you to and from Provincetown in approximately 90 minutes. She’s also equipped with a computerized ride stabilization system for the smoothest ride on water. (Please note that vessel assignments are subject to change; catamarans other than Salacia are sometimes utilized for Provincetown Ferry service.)

Can I bring luggage onboard?

We understand that, in addition to our day trippers, many passengers may be travelling for extended stays in Provincetown and therefore may have luggage. As a courtesy to our passengers, BHCC currently allows luggage onboard free of charge. Luggage guidelines are as follows: Please be mindful that storage space is very limited. We ask that you keep to a maximum of one piece of luggage per person. Luggage or items over 45 linear inches (the total of the height, width, and depth of the bag) must be surrendered to the crew at the top of the gangway upon boarding and will remain in storage, without access, throughout the trip. With this in mind, please remove any items that you need while onboard – for example laptop, earphones, sunscreen – from your luggage before entering the gangway. Your compliance with these guidelines is greatly appreciated.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your departure time to allow for boarding. The ferry departs on schedule and once it’s left the dock, you’ve missed the boat!

How long is the ferry ride from Boston to Provincetown?

The BHCC P-Town Ferry service has an average trip time of approximately 90 minutes underway from dock to dock.  Additional time should be planned for disembarking and luggage retrieval.  Certain circumstances such as extreme weather, mechanical issues, etc. may increase trip time.

How much time do I need to make an airport or other transportation connection?

Passengers are reminded that the 90-minute average trip time for the Provincetown Ferry represents the time underway from shore to shore. Time should also be allotted for disembarking and luggage retrieval.   In addition, sea conditions, high passenger count, and circumstances once you arrive in Boston, such as traffic, etc. can all factor into your ability to make your connection.  We strongly recommend that you leave ample time when booking your connection to allow for any variables that could occur.    

Is there food on the Provincetown Ferry?

The Provincetown Ferry features an onboard galley and full cash bar where a variety of snacks, sandwiches and beverages can be purchased with cash or credit card.     

Can you recommend things to do in Provincetown?

Absolutely. Just ask our onboard concierge for dining, entertainment and lodging recommendations. You’ll also find brochures and maps at the Concierge Desk to help you find your way.

For further information, please visit the following:

Provincetown Tourism Office –

Provincetown Chamber of Commerce –

Provincetown Business Guild –

Does my ticket ensure a seat onboard?

BHC strictly adheres to safety guidelines and vessel-specific capacity limits set by US Coast Guard certification. Capacity limits are set based on the number of individuals certified to be onboard for passage, rather than the number of seats on a vessel. Therefore, on trips experiencing high volume, the passenger count will exceed the number of seats onboard.  Passengers are reminded that in order to maximize seating opportunities, belongings are not allowed on seats and booth seating should be shared with fellow passengers.   

Do passengers ever experience motion sickness?

Our Provincetown Ferry vessels (high-speed catamarans) are designed to be highly stable, but in certain sea conditions, some passengers may experience motion sickness. If you think this could be you, a medication such as Dramamine may help but you should take it at least an hour before boarding. Riding near the front of the boat and facing forward can help, as can ginger, crackers and keeping your head still by resting on a seat back. 

What is the cost of the ferry from Boston to Provincetown?

Pricing for the Provincetown Ferry is variable, depending on availability, day of week, and high-demand departure times, and other factors. Please check the booking calendar on this page for current rates.  (Day-trip rates on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday offer the best values!)

Where does the Provincetown Ferry leave from?

The Provincetown Ferry’s convenient departure locations are Long Wharf in Boston and MacMillan Wharf in Provincetown.    

Where does the Provincetown Ferry land?

The Provincetown Ferry’s convenient destination locations are Long Wharf in Boston and MacMillan Wharf in Provincetown.  

How fast does the Provincetown Ferry go?

The Provincetown Ferry travels at up to 40 knots (approximately 46 mph), getting you to and from Provincetown in approximately 90 minutes.  

Do I need a car in Provincetown?

No, you don’t need a car in Provincetown.  The ferry arrives at MacMillan Wharf, just steps away from Commercial Street, Provincetown’s main shopping and dining area.  Bike rentals, dune tours and beach shuttle buses are also available there.   

Is there a boat from Boston to Provincetown?

Boston Harbor City Cruises offers the Provincetown Fast Ferry from Long Wharf in Boston to MacMillan Wharf in Provincetown in only 90 minutes.  The ferry runs from May through October.  

Does the Provincetown fast ferry operate year-round?

The Provincetown Fast Ferry operates seasonally, mid-May through mid-October each year.