How to Take the Commuter Rail to Ferry Connections in MA & RI

Massachusetts and Rhode Island residents have so many postcard-worthy summer destinations in reach with ferry systems such as Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Newport, Block Island, Provincetown, and the Boston Harbor Islands.

If you want to skip summer traffic while traveling to these hot spots in 2026, here’s how you can use the Commuter Rail to get to ferry connections while taking advantage of seasonal savings like Free Fridays and other fare discounts to soak up the last weeks of summer. 

Travel to Martha’s Vineyard & Nantucket Without the Traffic 

A summer trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket captures the essence of a New England summer, from the hydrangeas to the historic roads and scenic beaches. While these iconic islands offer the perfect escape, getting to the ferry during peak summer months often means being stuck in Cape Cod traffic. This summer, skip the traffic and start your island getaway sooner with a scenic Commuter Rail ride that brings you closer to your ferry connection.

Connect to Island Ferries From New Bedford 

Getting to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket is a breeze with the Fall River/ New Bedford Commuter Rail Line. Board at one of the stations along the line and ride to New Bedford Station. From there, the Seastreak Ferry Terminal is approximately 0.6 miles from the station for round-trip direct service to both the Vineyard and Nantucket. 

Take the CapeFLYER on Weekends to Your Island Ferry Connection 

If you are traveling to Nantucket on Martha’s Vineyard on a Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or holiday weekend, the CapeFLYER service is available from South Station from June 25th to September 7th, 2026. This special service train offers direct transportation from South Station to Hyannis Transportation Center. From there, complimentary shuttles will bring you to the Hy-Line Cruise docks for your ferry to the islands. 

Explore Narragansett Bay: Providence, Newport, and Block Island by Train & Ferry

Discover two of Rhode Island’s iconic summer destinations without the drive. The Providence/Stoughton Line connects travelers to ferry service, where Newport’s waterfront opens the door to coastal adventures, island escapes to Block Island, and more.

Take the Train to Providence for Newport Ferry Service

A summer day by the Cliff Walk or roaming around the Newport Mansions is just a train ride away! Start your journey by boarding at one of the stations along the Providence/Stoughton Commuter Rail Line, and ride into Providence Station. Once you’ve arrived at Providence Station, take the free RIPTA shuttle bus to the Providence Ferry Terminal to board the Newport Ferry. 

Newport to Block Island Ferry Connection

While you’re in Newport, don’t miss the opportunity to take the seasonal, high-speed Block Island ferry departing from Perrotti Park in downtown Newport. 

Car-free Travel to Provincetown

Provincetown, or P-town, is another equally hard-to-reach but iconic New England summer destination. A ferry is one of the most scenic ways to reach Provincetown, but your journey can start before you ever reach the waterfront. Use the Commuter Rail to connect to ferry service and enjoy a car-free trip to Cape Cod.

Connect to the Provincetown Fast Ferry From South Station

With nine Commuter Rail lines serving South Station, getting to Provincetown is easy. Take the Commuter Rail inbound to South Station, and travel 0.7 mi to Long Wharf in Boston. From there, you can take the City Cruises Fast Ferry to Provincetown. 

Ride the Kingston Line to Your P-town Ferry Connection

By taking the Kingston Line, you can also reach a ferry connection to Provincetown. Ride into Kingston Station, and take a quick rideshare 5 miles down the road to Plymouth Harbor to board the seasonal fast ferry to P-town. 

Explore the Boston Harbor Islands

Perfect for a summer day trip, the Boston Harbor Islands offer plenty to explore, from the historic sites of Georges Island to the beaches and trails of Spectacle and Peddocks Islands. 

How to Get from South Station to the Boston Harbor Islands

Start your Boston Harbor Islands adventure by taking one of the nine Commuter Rail lines that service South Station. From there, travel .7 mi to Long Wharf in Boston to find ferry service to Boston Harbor Islands.