I am planning on traveling to Nantucket on Sat. Aug. 23 or Sun. Aug. 24. I will be driving from New York and will either take the Hy-line high speed ferry or a flight fron Hyannis through Cape Air, or another airline, to Nantucket.

I am just wondering how much more traffic we will encounter on Saturday vs. Sunday. I am planning on staying on Nantucket for either 2 or 3 nights, depending upon the answer to the traffic question. Is 2 nights enough on Nantucket? Is it worth dealing with alot more traffic on Saturday to be on the island for 1 more night? Approx. how long should it take us to get from the middle of Long Island to Hyannis? According to Mapquest driving directions, it should take about 5 hours, but I am sure that is not taking traffic into consideration. The Hy-line ferry directions say that the trip should take approx 5 hours from the New York area but, if this means the City propper, I will have to add another hour onto that to get there from Long Island.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can help. I already have a reservation for Sunday and Monday nights, but I know I have to get on the ball and make a decision soon if I am going to get a reservation for Saturday night as well.

I'm looking forward to your replies and thanks again!

Go on Saturday. After all that driving, have more time to enjoy the island. If you are going to fly, why not fly from NY? The difference in traffic between Sat and Sun has never been noticable to us. Just leave NY as early as possible...6 am is good.

Happy2travel,
Living on Cape Cod, I can tell you that there is a difference in traffic Sat vs Sun in the summer. Sat is weekly rental change-over day and the traffic off the Cape is very heavy morning to mid-afternoon and heavy coming on Cape from noon to early evening. But do take the extra day - it will be worth it. Why not fly from NY - good idea.

If you're planning to fly or take the high speed ferry, reservations are strongly recommended. Note that it's best not to book the last high speed ferry, as sometimes trips are cancelled due to weather conditions, or in case you are delayed.

You're liable to run into traffic anytime, but especially on Saturday or Sunday.

Five hours seems about right, with no traffic. Just allow plenty of time. You can get the Smartraveler phone number on the web and phone for information on the bridges to determine which one to use. It's best to have a detailed map, so you can avoid the rotary in Hyannis (although there's no other way to get to the airport).

Parking is no problem at the airport, but the ferry dock has satellite lots in addition to the main lot. When you arrive, you will be directed to the nearest lot with space. Then, you return with your bags by bus shuttle if it's too far to walk. So, be sure to allow plenty of time not only to get there, but also to park your car and get to the boat.

Nantucket is definitely worth the effort. You won't want to leave, so another night is an excellent idea.

Thanks to everyone for your replies. The reason we will not be flying is that Nantucket is only the first leg of our vacation. This mini trip has evolved from 3 nights on Cape Cod to 8 or 9 nights including Nantucket. For this reason we will need our car to get around.

The plan went from 2 nights in Chatham and 1 night in Sandwich, to 2 or 3 nights on Nantucket, 2 nights in Wellfleet, 1 night in Provincetown, 2 nights in Chatham, and the last night in Sandwich. I am hoping that this itinerary will give us us a good taste of the Cape's diversity.

If we were only going to Nantucket we would definitely go for the 3 nights. But, since this is an extended vacation, I wasn't sure that it would be worth sitting in traffic to add a night onto Nantucket. However, we have that Saturday free anyway, and everyone seems to absolutely love Nantucket, so maybe we should just go for it.

I AM concerned about the length of the drive, though, only as it pertains to us catching our ferry, or plane, on time. Originally, I was only considering the ferry since I thought that the cost of a flight would be prohibitive. But, there really isn't that much of a difference in price.

The one problem with the ferry is that we either have to catch the 12:10 PM ferry, or we have to wait until 3:15, which I really don't want to do. That just seems like a waste of time. BUT, what time should I leave Saturday morning to make sure we can catch a 12:10 ferry? Should 6:00 AM be early enough, or should we leave even earlier?

On the other hand, the planes leave much more frequently, which is great, since we could take a 1:30 flight. But how much time before the flight do we have to arrive at the airport? Also, how much of a hassle is it to get from the airport in Nantucket to our B&B? Do we need to take a taxi, and how much would it be? I have read that the taxis are expensive, and this cost will have to be added to the cost of the flight.

Given this information, I would love to know your further opinions. Should we still go for the extra night in Nantucket? And, should we ferry or fly from Hyannis? and what about the timing?

By the way, djkbooks.....thanks so much for the tip regarding An Explorers Guide: Cape Cod. It really is chockful of useful information. The advice you shared with me on my previous thread was most helpful. I can't believe how much this itinerary has changed!

I just hope that we won't be disappointed in Cape Cod after staying on Nantucket. Everyone seems to think that Nantucket is a paradise. Although, I have also read so many positive comments about Cape Cod, as well. I hoped that by staying in Wellfleet for 2 nights that we might get a taste for a slightly quieter and more layed back summertime Cape Cod.

I don't remember if I mentioned this on my last thread, but this trip is a surprise gift to my husband for his 50th birthday. He is really getting into digital photography and is thinking about starting his own business. Based on all that I have read, I thought that Cape Cod would be an amazing place for him to photograph since there are many, many opportunities to see various types of natural beauty ...ponds, the sound, the CCNS and dunes, wildlife sancuaries, beautiful trails, seals, and whales. There are also quaint towns, lighthouses, historical homes and churches -a little bit of everything beautiful!

And, I'm really excited about some of the iformation I obtained from the guide. I have set up a sunset dune tour, and have registered my husband for a one day photography workshop. I really think that he will love these opportunities.

Thanks again everyone!

Check with the airline. Unless anything has changed, you don't really have to stick to your reservations. The planes actually take off one after another, as soon as each is filled. We've gotten to the airport early and boarded almost immediately.

PS Highly recommend The Summer House for dinner on Nantucket. Very "Cassablanca". Wonderful food. You can enjoy your after dinner drink/coffee on the lovely porch with the waves lapping in the moonlight outside, while listening to lovely piano music coming from inside.

djkbooks, I called both airlines -Cape Air and Island Air- and they both have the same fare, and basically everything else seems the same. Do you prefer one airline over the other?

Also, they both confirmed that it is good to have a reservation but, if we miss a flight for some reason, they are very flexible and we can just get on the next flight. It seems as if the additional $20 per person for the flight is actually a bargain due to the saved time and the flexibility of the airlines' service. And the taxi fare is much more reasonable than I expected -only $8 into town. Both airlines also mentioned a shuttle from the airport to town for $2 per person. It seems more convenient to just take the taxi but one of the airline customer service reps said the shuttle can be fun since it goes around the island and can be a fun intoduction. I mention this information just in case someone else might find it useful. Now, I just have to decide whether we should begin our trip on Saturday or Sunday.

Do you think leaving at 6:00 AM will get us to the airport by 12:00PM? If I understood correctly, Saturday morning should be fine, just watch out for Saturday afternoon?

Also, thanks for the restaurant recommendation. I will look into dining at the Summer House. It DOES sound very romantic. How far is the Summer House from The House of Seven Gables on Cliff Road? Are you familiar with this B&B? I haven't been able to find much written about this particular B&B.

Lastly, given the fact that you are so knowledgeable about the Cape and Nantucket, I'd like to know your opinion of our 8 or 9 night itinerary. Also, are there any other restaurants that you would particularly recommend?

Thanks again djkbooks!

Seven Gables is at least half a mile walking from Main Street in Nantucket Town. Summer House is in Sconset. You'd have to take a taxi - worth it.

We love Boarding House and Le Languedoc and Company of the Cauldron for dinner. Arnos and Expresso Cafe are terrific for breakfast, lunch. The Expresso Cafe is great any time for a snack or coffee. Most folks have no idea there's a lovely garden through the back door, with umbrella tables and chairs (a virtual oasis).

For the rest of the Cape, "An Explorer's Guide" is highly reliable for selecting appealing dining spots.

No way I'd count on a five or six hour drive taking no more than six. If there's construction or an accident anywhere along the way, all bets are off.

If it were me, I'd head north the night before, get most of the way there, and head for the bridges early in the morning. Getting stuck in slow moving traffic is not nearly so frustrating if you've plenty of time.

I personally would never spent five nights in three places only 20 minutes apart. Though many have their favorite spots for relaxing for an entire week, for "diversity", you'll want to drive all over.

Especially magnificent are the ocean drives in Osterville, Falmouth and Woods Hole. With that new camera, you won't want to miss Nobska Light.

Speaking of photo ops, one advantage of taking the ferry to Nantucket is the breaktaking skyline of the harbor as the boat arrives! Though we've enjoyed this many, many times, we always ferry over and fly back.

By the way, best of the best on the Cape is Chillingsworth. I took my husband there for his 50th birthday. One of the most extraordinary dining experiences, anywhere, ever.

We had a house on Mooers Ave off of Cliff Road which I think is past your b&b and we walked into town all the time. Another good place for breakfast is the Downyflake, although you'd have to take a cab, bike or moped. I don't know what you want to spend on dinner but at the high end, we've also enjoy the Inn at Wauwinet (they will take you by boat from the harbor), 21 Federal and the Chanticleer in Siasconset. Our children love the Brotherhood for a hamburger. Best ice cream is at the Juice Bar.

We allow 6 hours from NY area, but have also been stuck in horrendous Cape traffic. I would concur with driving part way the afternoon/evening before. When we had our house, we used to always leave in the middle of the night - there is little traffic on Rt. 95 at 4 pm! Arriving by ferry the first time is wonderful, but flying might be more convenient with your limited time and summer crowds.

OOOPS - I meant little traffic on Rt. 95 at 4 am!

Whenever you reserve at pricey dining destinations, be sure to inquire as to whether any large parties or celebrations are booked the same evening.

There's nothing worse that attempting to have a quiet, romantic, repast (especially when major bucks are involved) with a HUGE, very LOUD, party nearby.

The first time we visited Chanticleer, there was some sort of function upstairs with a loud band, along with a large, very loud, rehearsal dinner near our table.

djkbooks, thanks for the info-filled response.

You mentioned that you would leave the night before and then stop for the night someplace just before the bridge. This seems like it might be a good idea. Do you have any suggestions for an inexpensive place to stay for the night?

I was also thinking that if we went that route, it might be nice to head south and go down to Falmouth on the way to Hyannis so that we could take in the ocean drive you were recommending. Otherwise, I don't know when we might be in the area. Does this seem workable, or will we get caught in alot of traffic going that way, too?

I am also considering your idea of heading to Nantucket on the ferry and then returning to Hyannis via plane. The only problem I can see with that plan is the logistics of getting to our car. When we get to the airport upon our return from Hyannis, we will need to get back to our car at the ferry parking lot. How have you done this when you have ferried over to Nantucket and then flown back?

Also, thanks for the restaurant recommendations. I had already made a reservation at Chillingsworth to celebrate my husband's birthday. We'll be dining at this restaurant while we are staying in Chatham.

Company of the Cauldron was another a restaurant I was considering. The only problem is that it is difficult to make a reservation in advance for that restaurant when you don't know what they will be serving on a particular evening. I think the fact that they only serve one selection each night is an interesting concept, though. I have also read alot of good things about the Boarding House and 21 Federal.

I have read a bit about the Summer House, also, and all reviews have said that the ambience is wonderful. I have read varying opinions, though, regarding the food and the service. The atmosphere certainly seems enchanting, though.

I can understand why many people might think that it is crazy to move around so much in such a short period of time. We are used to it, however, from our trips abroad. I also enjoy the experience of discovering different B&Bs. But, I really can understand why people would rather opt for a relaxing vacation in 1 favorite spot. Since we have never been to the Cape or Nantucket before, we have no idea where that place might be for us. After this trip we might have a favorite place of our own.

Another reason I decided to stay 2 nigts in Wellfleet and then 1 night in Provincetown is the parking. I really wanted to experience a more layed back Cape Cod by staying in Wellfleet. I also wanted to visit Provincetown but not spend that much time in such a busy town, so we I was considering just a day trip from Wellfleet. However, I have read about how difficult the parking situation can be in Provincetown as a day-tripper. So, I thought the best way to solve that problem is to spend the night at a B&B in Provincetown where we can park the car and then walk to where we want to go. We'll see how it works out.

But, speaking of B&Bs, you mentioned that the House of Seven Gables is about a half mile outside of town. Is this an advantage or a disadvantage. I though it might be nice that it is quieter there but also not too far away from the action in town. Do you think it is a bit too far away? Do you have a favorite B&B on the island?

Thanks again for your wonderful insight, recommendations and advice regarding the Cape and Nantucket. You have been most helpful!!!

One nice place for an overnight on the way is Onset, just a few miles northwest of the Bourne bridge. There are charming, moderately priced accomodations, most located waterside. Here's a good place to start: http://www.onsetvillage.com/lodging3.html

When we ferry to Nantucket and fly back, we park our car at the airport and take a taxi to the ferry dock.

As for House of the Seven Gables, it's nice that Something Natural is just a few doors down, and it's convenient to Cliffside Beach. The Galley Restaurant is only steps away, too. Gorgeous views where dining is candles and class. The lobster with herbs and beurre blanc is unbelievable. It's a lovely stroll to and from town.

Whenever we reserve at Company of the Cauldron, we ask about the menu when we phone to confirm. We've never once cancelled, and have always been thrilled.

djkbooks, how much time should we allow to get a taxi at the airport and then drive over to the ferry terminal? Approx. how much should the taxi cost?

I checked out the website you suggested for Onset accommodations. All of the accommodations look lovely and are right on the bay. If we were staying in Onset longer I would definitely consider them. However, we really will be stopping only to sleep, so I would like to spend less than $110/night.

We would probably leave NY approx. 6:00 PM on Friday evening and arrive at a town just before the bridge around 11:00 PM. Then we will leave early the following morning to avoid the traffic going over the bridge. So, I would really like to find inexpensive accommodations since we will not have the opportunity to enjoy them. If you have further suggestions I would truly appreciate them.

Also, what did you think of the idea of crossing the Bourne bridge and then driving down to, and around, Falmouth that first morning on our way to the airport? How long do you think that drive would take on Saturday morning (stopping for some photographs along the way, of course)? I was thinking about leaving the hotel between 8 and 9 AM. Will that still work when trying to avoid the Saturday morning traffic?

Thanks again!

Well, best for late check-in and lower rates would probably be any of the chains (Days, Comfort, Holiday Inns, etc.) in New Bedford. From there, it's about 1/2 hour to the Bourne Bridge. From there, you could drive Route 6 following the signs to Woods Hole and on Woods Hole Road continue to Nobska Road (all the way at the end is Nobska Light). Heading back north on Nobska, that becomes Oyster Pond which becomes Surf Drive which, via a hard right at the end, becomes Shore Road, which runs into Route 28 (Main St. in Falmouth is where you'd be). From there, it's about 20 miles to the ferry docks or airport. This entire route from New Bedford is about 70 miles and about an hour and 45 minutes driving.

You will want to pay careful attention as it's really easy to get turned around on the Cape. That's because the road signs do NOT represent the actual direction you're travelling. It's nearly essential to have a good compass in your vehicle!

For example, when traveling due north on Route 6, the signs will read "Route 6 South". No kidding. (Well, that's not quite as ridiculous as a stretch of I95-North/I93-South.)

Allegedly, because Route 6 enters Massachussets in a southerly direction (actually it's southeast), one travels "south" all the way to the end, even though the road goes mostly east, then due north.

You never know about the traffic. To be on the safe side, I'd leave closer to 8AM. You may encouter a little traffic towards Woods Hole, in Falmouth Center, Hyannis, but not likely along the ocean.

I will check into New Bedford accommodations. Hopefully I will be able to find a reasonable rate for the 1 night.

Thanks for the warning about the road signs. That stretch of road labeled I95-North/I93-South really is ridiculous! I'll be sure to have a compass with us.

Driving down to Falmouth DOES seem doable, according to your post, so I think that's what we'll do. It won't be a leisurely drive that way, but I am not sure if we'll be able to get there any other day and I would hate to miss such beautiful scenery! And it should be pretty quiet at that time od day.

Originally, I was thinking about spending the last night in Falmouth, or making the first night Falmouth, because the town is supposed to be very quaint and, as you said, the scenery is beautiful. But Sandwich won out for the last night, and Nantucket won for the first. If we are going to spend the time and money to get to Nantucket, we might as well make the most of it.

Thanks again for all the great information. It is very appreciated!!!

djkbooks, I just called Hy-line ferry to book the high speed ferry from Hyannis to Nantucket on 8/23. The representative said that she would allow 40 minutes to get from the airport parking to the ferry terminal. Does this seem reasonable?

I know that traffic can be bad on a Saturday morning but, even so, that seems like a lot of time to go a very short distance. I was going to try and arrive at the airport parking lot at approx. 11:00 AM for the 12:00 PM ferry, but, given the traffic, that might not be enough time. djkbooks, what has your experience been with the traffic -and how much time have you allowed to get from the airport to the ferry?

Also, approx. how much do you think the cab ride will cost? The Hy-line rep said that she thought it would be just a few dollars, but I can't see a taxi charging just a few dollars for a 30 minute ride.

Thanks again. I am going to try to do the booking of the ferry and the flight after I hear from you.

ttt, please. Just hoping for a reply. Thanks.

If the Hy-line rep recommends 40 minutes, assume she knows what she's talking about. It's not likely to take that long, but you wouldn't want to miss your ferry.

The scenic route via Nobska Light will be leisurely enough. Except for a stop at the lighthouse for a few photos, it's just a very scenic drive...You will pass through Main Street in Falmouth, but it's not necessary to stop there or anywhere else.

I don't recall the taxi fare, but it must have been reasonable (or I would have remembered that it wasn't).

One advantage of a taxi is they know the best way to go, as they've been driving around, will know where the slow-downs are, and know ways around them.