No traffic, an awakening saltwater breeze, and the occasional free ride, we can’t think of a better commute to work! Ok, maybe a work-from-home commute is slightly better (if you know, you know) but the quietly advertised MBTA Ferry is a strong contender for the second-best commute when it comes to working in Boston.
Probably most of you are familiar with the MBTA ferry. Possibly many of you live near an MBTA Ferry port, and yet only 1%, 4,000 of the 400,000, people in the Boston workforce use the MBTA ferry on a daily basis.
As a state with long coasts and many waterways, it’s a perfectly reasonable regular means of transit, especially in the warmer weather. “We are a coastal district. A ferry makes all the sense in the world—in the short term and as we look to relieve congestion and reduce carbon-generating auto emissions moving forward,” said Representative Jenny Armini about the restored Lynn ferry service which opens up water transit for much of the North Shore.
MBTA Ferry routes
The MBTA ferry has five routes starting at the following ports with inbound and outbound service to Boston:
- Charlestown
- East Boston
- Winthrop
- Hingham/Hull
- Lynn
Ride the ferry…for free!
Free boat ride anyone? During the Sumner Tunnel construction, certain fares are free or reduced. The following routes are currently free round-trip:
- East Boston ferry from Long Wharf (free until August 31)
And the routes below are being offered at reduced fares during tunnel construction which is slated to end on August 31:
- Winthrop: Now $1.10; usually $2.40
- Lynn: Now $1.10; usually $2.40
Monthly passes for Winthrop and Lynn are currently $30. Regular monthly ferry passes are also available for regular commuters and start at $90 depending on your route zones.
The Charlestown Ferry has regular pricing of $3.70 one-way and the Hingham/Hull Ferry is $9.75 one-way. You can learn more about reserving your fare online and view up-to-date ferry schedules.
The ferry is not only great for work, its timeliness is currently rated at 95%, but a convenient way to access beaches along the North Shore or in Hingham and Hull! Plus, Boston Harbor Cruises owns all MBTA Ferries, so you’re essentially taking a cruise at a fraction of the cost.