Marina Bay Ferry FAQs
What are the prices?
- $8.50 one-way (note on schedule discounted commuter times)
- $6.50 seniors (65 +)
- Children 10 and under are free, but must be accompanied by an adult
- Commuter Package: $290 for 40 tickets
Well, that’s more expensive than taking the train, why?
The boat is owned and operated by the Town of Winthrop, and the operation is subsidized by the State in small way. The prices are reflective of similar services along the coast of Greater Boston. Permanent service could become part of a program with a larger agency – such as the MBTA – which may lead to lower costs and incentives similar to the MBTA’s Charlie Card.
How do I get tickets?
Click here to get tickets. You can also get them on the boat – but you are not guaranteed passage if a trip is sold out.
How do I get there?
The Marina Bay Ferry launches from the beautiful City of Quincy at beautiful Squantum Point Park, owned by the State Department of Conservation and Recreation. Map and directions are right here.
How much is parking?
- $1.25 per hour
- $5 maximum for a full day
- 1st hour free for park users.
Why is DCR charging for parking now?
DCR has agreed for the first time in many, many years to open the 850-space lot at Squantum Point 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. This is incredibly important not just for the ferry, but for the many existing – and future – businesses at Marina Bay. There is a cost associated with maintaining that lot. In addition, the DCR, which maintains all of our state parks and recreation services, has an obligation to create revenue opportunities. $1.25 an hour and $5 for the entire day is a pretty good rate.
Is It Accessible for Persons with Disabilities?
Squantum Point Pier is handicap accessible.
Can I bring my bicycle aboard?
You sure can!
How did this come about?
Your State and City leaders have been working for some time to create a new ferry service with Squantum Point Park highlighted as a potential hub for many years. Earlier this year, when Winthrop started its own municipally run ferry service without any state operating subsidies, Mayor Tom Koch, Senator John Keenan, State Rep. Bruce Ayers and Councillor Bill Harris met with Winthrop officials to see how their program worked.
What started as fact-finding quickly turned into discussions about forming a partnership and adding Quincy stops to the Winthrop service. The plan required a third-partner and the Administration of Governor Charlie Baker and his Department of Conversation – which owns the pier and the parking lot that would provide the access for a ferry – immediately pledged its support. Within just a few months, plans to open the Squantum Point lot, fix the pier, and launch the service were in place.
What’s the long-term plan?
Permanent ferry service from Squantum Point Park! This program will be used to collect data, gauge interest, receive feedback and prepare for what is hoped to be a substantially larger operation and expanded schedule in coming years. Any permanent operation will require major investment in the pier and dock and will include the extension of Commander Shea Boulevard to the park to provide more efficient vehicle access.