Routes & Operators
Steamship Authority starts a year-round veterans passenger discount
The Steamship Authority said on 2 November 2026 that qualified veterans who live in its port communities can buy passenger tickets at the senior discount, year-round. The authority describes that discount as approximately half off on its conventional ferries and approximately 25% off on the Hyannis–Nantucket high-speed ferry. Veterans with a valid military ID travel free as passengers on Veterans Day, 11 November 2026.
Source: Steamship Authority (opens in a new tab)
The Woods Hole, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority posted a notice on 2 November 2026, datelined Falmouth. It has launched a year-round discounted passenger fare for qualified veterans who live in its port communities, alongside the existing free travel on Veterans Day. The board authorized the Veterans Discount Program at its August meeting.
The discount is the same as the senior-citizen discount. A veteran must live in Barnstable, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Falmouth or New Bedford, and be able to prove an honorable discharge from a branch of the US military. The authority says the discount is approximately half off a passenger ticket on a conventional ferry to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket, or approximately 25% off a ticket on the high-speed passenger-only ferry between Hyannis and Nantucket.
On Veterans Day, Wednesday, 11 November 2026, veterans, including active-duty and retired military, who have a valid military ID showing active duty, honourable discharge or retired status, can travel as a passenger for free on all of the authority’s ferries, including the Nantucket high-speed ferry. A Real ID that shows veteran status is also accepted. The free ticket does not cover any other passenger or a vehicle. Complimentary tickets are available at any ticket office before boarding.
General manager Alex Kryska said: “The new veterans discount program is a small way that the Steamship Authority can thank the men and women who have served our country.” He said veterans are important members of the communities, and that the authority is proud to demonstrate its appreciation for their service and sacrifice.