- Must visit
Peabody Essex Museum
Leading Salem museum with maritime art, Asian export art, and a notable historic house collection.
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Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Boston, MA to Salem, MA
USAUSA
Ferries from Boston, MA to Salem, MA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 50m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $38 if you book in advance.
There are 5 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 00:30, the last at 21:30. The fastest ferry covers the 11 nautical miles (22 km) distance in 50m. There are 3 sailings per week.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 11 nautical miles (22 km) |
Average sailing duration 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 |
Ferries per day 5 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 3 |
Fastest ferry 50m |
First ferry 12:30 AM |
Last ferry 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Boston, MA to Salem, MA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Boston, MA to Salem, MA.
Cheap ferry tickets from Boston, MA to Salem, MA can start from as little as $38 when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Boston, MA to Salem, MA is $39 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest ferry from Boston, MA to Salem, MA leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Boston, MA to Salem, MA leaves at 9:30 PM.
Yes, there are 5 direct ferries a day from Boston, MA to Salem, MA with Boston Harbor Cruises. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
Ferry operators: Boston Harbor Cruises from Boston, MA to Salem, MAYou can travel by ferry between Boston, MA to Salem, MA with Boston Harbor Cruises for as low as $38. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
Boston Harbor Cruises
About
Boston Harbor City Cruises, a subsidiary of the Hornblower Group, has been a cornerstone of Boston's maritime heritage since 1926. Operating a diverse fleet of over 40 vessels, the company offers a range of services, including harbor sightseeing tours, whale watching excursions, private charters, and ferry services to destinations like Cape Cod and the North and South Shores. In 2024, Boston Harbor City Cruises completed nearly 58,000 trips for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), transporting over 1.4 million passengers. The company continues to uphold its commitment to safety, operational efficiency, and exceptional customer service.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Boston Harbor Cruises Duration
50m
Cheapest Boston Harbor Cruises Price
$38
Boston Harbor Cruises frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring luggage onboard free of charge.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage beyond the standard allowance is not permitted.
Luggage storage
Limited storage space is available for luggage exceeding 45 linear inches.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets are non-refundable; cancellations are not permitted.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are not permitted onboard.
Amenities on board the ferry
Toilets
Accessibility
Ferry services are accessible to passengers with mobility challenges.
Bikes
Bicycles are allowed onboard for an additional fee.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Boston, MA and Salem, MA
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
No, there are no cabins on ferries from Boston, MA to Salem, MA.
No, there are no vehicle options on ferries from Boston, MA to Salem, MA.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Boston, MA to Salem, MA is possible with . We recommend arriving at least one hour before the trip if you are travelling on foot, but please check specific times for each route. If you need to book your travel to the departure port, check our trains, buses and flight options on Omio.
When taking a ferry from Boston, MA to Salem, MA, you can count on Boston Harbor Cruises for the best way to get you to Salem, MA. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Boston, MA and Salem, MA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
Complete guide to Salem, MA
Things to do in Salem, MA
Discover the best of Salem, MA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Salem, MA trip today.
- Must visit
Salem Witch Museum
Museum exploring the 1692 witch trials through documents, sets, and exhibits that frame Salem's complex history.
- Recommended
Witch History Museum
Small museum in a former jail and courthouse presenting witch trial history and broader Salem stories.
- Must visit
Essex Street Pedestrian Mall
Pedestrian-friendly downtown street lined with shops, historic buildings, and easy access to many Salem sights.
- Recommended
Salem Common
Waterfront park with harbor views, gardens, public art, and broad lawns popular for walks and relaxation.
- Recommended
Pickering Wharf
Historic waterfront area with wharves, brick buildings, and paths connecting maritime landmarks and harbor views.
New England Clam Chowder
Clam chowder is a New England staple made with clams, potatoes, cream, and salt pork. It is traditional along the Massachusetts coast and common in Salem.
Lobster Roll
Lobster roll features chilled lobster meat in a buttered split-top bun, often lightly dressed. It is a classic Massachusetts seafood favorite served in Salem.
Fried Clams
Fried clams are whole clams coated and fried until crisp. They are a beloved North Shore seafood specialty often eaten with tartar sauce and fries.
Ledger Restaurant & Bar
Refined restaurant serving seasonal American dishes and seafood in an intimate, polished downtown atmosphere.
Red's Sandwich Shop
Casual spot popular for sandwiches and New England comfort food, especially roast beef and hearty pub-style plates.
Turner's Seafood At Lyceum Hall
Long-running local favorite for fresh seafood, lobster rolls, and fried platters with a relaxed neighborhood feel.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for US travel. Hotels can rise in peak season, but casual dining and local transport are fairly typical for a small tourist city.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- $45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants. Taxis usually get 10-15% or the fare rounded up. Cafes often use tip jars or screen prompts for small tips.
Plan your visit to Salem, MA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Salem, MA.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Salem, MA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially during popular events like Halloween. Some taxi or ride-share drivers may overcharge or take longer routes, so using official services is recommended. Additionally, beware of ticket scams for attractions; always purchase tickets from authorized vendors to avoid counterfeit or inflated prices. Standard safety precautions, such as staying in well-lit areas at night, also apply.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Ferry from Boston, MA to Salem, MA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Boston, MA to Salem, MA by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Salem, MA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take a ferry between Boston, MA and Salem, MA.
popular ferry ports
Popular ports from Boston, MA to Salem, MA
Most Boston, MA to Salem, MA ferries use the Long Wharf (Boston) to Salem port pair. Use this guide to compare Boston, MA and Salem, MA ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Departure ports in Boston
Arrival ports in Salem
Long Wharf (Boston)Boston, MA 02110, USA
SalemSalem, MA 01970, USA
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