Ferry Access Guide
The MBTA ferry system serves the North and South Shore and the Boston Inner Harbor across a number of routes and terminals. Accessibility features vary across routes and docks.
Key access features include:
- Accessible floating docks
- Mobile bridge plates that span the gap between the dock and the ferry
- Seating areas for customers who use wheeled mobility devices
- Audio and digital stop and destination announcements
- Accessible restrooms
Ferry crew are trained to assist with boarding and exiting at each terminal.
Planning Your Trip
- Plan an accessible journey on the T with the MBTA trip planner
- Check for accessibility features at ferry docks
- Contact Customer Support to request ferry schedules in large print or braille formats
- Try some of our additional accessible trip planning tools
Fares and Passes
People 65 and older and people with disabilities may qualify for reduced ferry fares.
Apply through the CharlieCard Store at Downtown Crossing to receive a:
As of Tuesday, September 5, 2023, the CharlieCard Store has been temporarily relocated to the State Transportation Building at 10 Park Plaza, due to maintenance issues.
T Access Guides by Mode
Much of the MBTA is accessible. Learn more about accessibility features on each mode of transit with our access guides.
What You Can Expect at an MBTA Ferry Dock
Most, but not all, MBTA docks are accessible to riders with disabilities. Based on the tide level and the type of vessel used for travel, you may encounter significant slopes and narrow walkways, even at accessible docks. At all docks, wait until a crew member tells you it is safe to proceed.
Boarding an MBTA Ferry
If you use a wheeled mobility device, a crew member will set up a bridge plate to span the gap between the dock and the boat.
Due to rising and falling tides, there may be significant vertical gaps during certain times of the day. A crew member will tell you when it’s safe to board.
On Board the Ferry
Paying Your Fare
A member of the crew will verify your fare on board. Though you can pay your fare in cash on board, it is recommended that you purchase your pass before you board at a ferry ticket window or with the mTicket app.
Priority Seating
Priority seating is available on all ferries. Designated seating areas for customers who use wheeled mobility devices are available on some ferries. Customers are expected to yield priority seats to older adults and people with disabilities, but cannot be forced to move.
Stop Announcements
Each stop along the route will be announced by an automated system or by a member of the ferry crew. Upcoming stops may also be displayed on digital signs on board the ferry.
Exiting the Ferry
You do not need to request your stop on an MBTA ferry.
If you use a wheeled mobility device, a crew member will set up a bridge plate to span the gap between the dock and the boat. They will tell you when it’s safe to exit.
Taking the ferry for the first time?
Learn more about schedules, destinations, and seasonal routes.
Beginner's Guide to the Ferry
T Access Guides by Mode
Much of the MBTA is accessible. Learn more about accessibility features on each mode of transit with our access guides.