New Bedford Ferry Terminal
Your gateway to Martha's Vineyard & Nantucket, offering a smooth ferry ride with unique attractions like a whale fossil.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother boarding
New Bedford Ferry Terminal
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother boarding
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Your gateway to Martha's Vineyard & Nantucket, offering a smooth ferry ride with unique attractions like a whale fossil.
"A whale-y wonderful start to our Martha's Vineyard adventure!"
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Ferry tickets, especially for popular routes, sell out quickly. Book in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
🚗 Valet Parking Recommended
Opt for valet parking for secure storage and a seamless return experience. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Whale Fossil
Inside the terminal
A massive whale fossil hangs from the ceiling, sparking wonder and imagination for all ages.
Captain's Bridge Visit
Onboard the ferry
Young aspiring captains can get a special tour of the bridge and meet the captain.
Scenic Ferry Ride
Onboard the ferry
Enjoy a smooth and relaxing journey to your island destination with comfortable seating.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Peak Times
Consider Parking Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Ferry tickets, especially for popular routes, sell out quickly. Book in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
🚗 Valet Parking Recommended
Opt for valet parking for secure storage and a seamless return experience. :car:
New Bedford ferry
New Bedford vs Hyannis Ferry
👨👩👧👦 Family Boarding First
Families are often allowed to board first, making the experience easier with children. :familywomanwomanboyboy:
☕ Grab Coffee Nearby
Ground Coffee Company nearby is a great spot for a pre-ferry coffee and snack. :coffee:
Ferry and parking question
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Ferry tickets, especially for popular routes, sell out quickly. Book in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
🚗 Valet Parking Recommended
Opt for valet parking for secure storage and a seamless return experience. :car:
👨👩👧👦 Family Boarding First
Families are often allowed to board first, making the experience easier with children. :familywomanwomanboyboy:
☕ Grab Coffee Nearby
Ground Coffee Company nearby is a great spot for a pre-ferry coffee and snack. :coffee:
🧳 Luggage Assistance
Staff can help with luggage, and shuttles are available for easier transport to the dock. :luggage:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Seastreak Ferry Terminal in New Bedford offers a generally positive start to island adventures, with highlights like the unique whale fossil and friendly staff who go the extra mile for families. However, some travelers have noted inconsistencies in customer service and onboard amenities, particularly regarding restroom facilities and food availability.
"A Whale-y Wonderful Start to Our Martha’s Vineyard Adventure! 🐳⛴️
We had such a fantastic experience at the Seastreak Ferry Terminal in New Bedford! From the moment we walked in, everything was smooth sailing—super clean terminal, educational signs on the walls, bonus points for the giant whale fossil hanging from the ceiling (which my 4-year-old was convinced might come to life at any moment 🐋).
The check-in team were all smiles and made us feel so welcome. Plenty of cozy indoor seating and was very clean.
But the true magic happened outside. Parish and Paul were the dynamic duo handling baggage—and they didn’t just lift our luggage, they lifted our spirits after a miserable uber ride from Boston! They noticed my son’s curiosity and literally turned his day into a captain’s dream: they invited him up to the bridge 🚢 to meet Captain Chuck, who was as kind and warm as can be. He let my son sit in the captain’s chair, touch the big shiny wheel, and probably made him feel like he could steer us all the way to the Vineyard!
This was a once-in-a-lifetime moment for a curious, bright-eyed little boy—and something we as parents will never forget. Thank you Seastreak, for not only getting us to our destination, but for turning the journey itself into an unforgettable adventure.
Highly recommend for families—especially those with ferry-loving little captains in training! ⚓️👦💙"
Kristy Clarke
"Traveled with my wife and sons to Nantucket for the weekend.
+The shuttle from the parking lot to the dock was quick and easy to get a stroller onto. The driver was talkative and nice.
-The staff at the dock were all either messing around and ignoring passengers, or were repeating the same things in an annoyed tone.
+They let families board first.
+The seating was great because an older gentleman at the bar (bartender?) came over to us and told us about a large family table at the back.
-The bathrooms were smelly, didn't flush, and had long lines.
+We asked the gentleman at the bar if there were changing tables and he said no, but offered to let us use the changing mat he brought from home for passengers to use. (We declined but appreciated him.)
-Why are there no changing tables? The handicap stall has more than enough room for one. Seems like Sea Streak doesn't care about families.
+We found our luggage easily and were off to our vacation!
+The staff were a lot nicer on the dock on Sunday.
-The bar was out of all food except candy and cookies. Girl at the bar seemed annoyed when we asked if they had various items from their menu. (Maybe cross off items you run out of like restaurants do?)
+The ride was smooth and relaxing (both ways). AC could have been turned up because it was nearly 80°on the ferry.
Overall, we would ride Sea Streak again, but only if other options weren't available."
Nathan Sullivan
"Absolutely terrible company. I do not recommend to anyone. I’ve emailed them 5 times without any response. I went from New Bedford to Nantucket. On my ride, the only seat left was under a ceiling AC unit that leaked on my head, clothes, and laptop. I have not heard back from the company once. I went to the terminal at the ferry and they smiled and gave me a business card to email them about my horrific trip. Again, have not received a response back. Worst decision to use them and will never do it again. DO NOT RECOMMEND"
Zach Wormell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The New Bedford Ferry Terminal is accessible by car, with options for onsite valet parking or a shuttle from a nearby lot. Public transportation options may vary, so check local transit schedules.
Yes, there are two parking options: onsite valet parking, which is recommended for security, or parking in a lot with a shuttle service to the boarding station.
Yes, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off directly at the New Bedford Ferry Terminal.
Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point. It's best to use a GPS navigation system and search for 'New Bedford Ferry Terminal' or 'Seastreak Ferry Terminal New Bedford, MA'.
Yes, a shuttle service is available from the designated parking lot to the boarding station, making it convenient to reach the ferry.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ferry tickets can be purchased online through the Seastreak website in advance, which is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
While it's best to book online in advance, you may be able to purchase tickets at the terminal if availability allows, but this is not guaranteed.
The terminal's operating hours typically align with the ferry schedules. It's advisable to check the Seastreak website for the most up-to-date information on departure and arrival times.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or military personnel. Check the Seastreak website for specific fare information and potential promotions.
Policies for missed ferries or cancellations can vary. It's important to review Seastreak's terms and conditions regarding refunds or rescheduling options. Some users have reported difficulty with refunds for medical emergencies.
🎫 🚢 Onboard Experience
Seastreak ferries offer comfortable seating, restrooms, and a snack bar. Some ferries may have Wi-Fi and charging stations.
The ferry ride is generally smooth and relaxing, even for those prone to seasickness, due to the catamaran design.
Yes, you can bring luggage. There are designated areas for luggage storage, and staff can assist with boarding.
Some reviews indicate a lack of changing tables, which can be an issue for families with infants. It's advisable to inquire directly with Seastreak about this amenity.
A snack bar typically offers a selection of snacks, candy, cookies, and beverages. However, menu availability can be limited, with some reports of running out of food items.
📸 📸 Photography
The whale fossil inside the terminal offers a unique photo opportunity. The deck of the ferry provides scenic views of the harbor and the ocean.
Absolutely! The ferry ride offers fantastic opportunities to capture stunning ocean views, coastal landscapes, and the islands as you approach.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography.
Expect to capture beautiful seascapes, the islands from a distance, and potentially marine life. The journey itself is picturesque.
Yes, you can get great shots of the ferry from the dock before boarding or from shorelines as it departs or arrives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be aware that changing tables may not be available on all ferries, which could be a logistical challenge.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food costs, it's advisable to pack your own snacks and drinks rather than relying solely on the onboard snack bar, which can have limited options and higher prices.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Seastreak Experience
Community feedback suggests that while the ferry staff are generally pleasant, there can be inconsistencies in service. Some passengers have reported staff appearing disengaged or speaking in an annoyed tone, while others have praised their helpfulness, especially when assisting families.
For families, the experience can be particularly memorable. The whale fossil in the terminal is a hit with children, and special opportunities like meeting the captain and visiting the bridge can create lasting memories. However, the absence of changing tables on some ferries has been a point of concern for parents.
Parking and Terminal Amenities
Inside the terminal, the most striking feature is the large whale fossil suspended from the ceiling, which serves as a unique point of interest and a great photo opportunity.
For those looking for a pre-ferry bite or drink, nearby options like Ground Coffee Company are recommended by travelers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit