Spring Ferry Service Returns as Island Life Picks Up Pace

April 17, 2026 · ACK Deals

The Seastreak is back, which means we're officially moving into spring rhythm on island. Starting today, the fast ferry is running between New Bedford and both Nantucket and the Vineyard through mid-May. For those of us who've been dealing with limited ferry options all winter, this feels like a small miracle.

The timing couldn't be better with the weather finally cooperating. After what feels like months of gray skies and bitter winds, we're looking at 54 degrees and clear conditions today. Sure, next week brings some cooler temps – Wednesday's high of 39 is nothing to write home about – but we'll take the sunshine.

Speaking of spring, the Atheneum's Peeps Diorama Contest is accepting entries, and honestly, it's one of those wonderfully quirky island traditions that makes living here year-round worthwhile. Literary scenes made from marshmallow Peeps? Only on Nantucket would this make perfect sense.

Meanwhile, that pilot all-way stop at Surfside and Miacomet is something to keep in mind if you're heading out to the beaches. The town's testing it for a month, so expect a bit of confusion until everyone adjusts to the new pattern.

With ferry service expanding and spring events ramping up, now's a perfect time to support the local businesses that keep this community thriving. Check out what our island merchants have to offer – from seasonal prep to spring cleaning services, our local vendors are ready to help make the most of the warmer months ahead.

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