2026 Steamship Authority Reservations

Summary of the 2026 Headstart Program and Nantucket General Public Internet Opening

Mark these dates on your calendar, so you can begin planning your trip to Nantucket this January.

2026 Headstart Program Highlights

Reservation Window: January 13–26, 2026
Eligibility: Open to island residents enrolled in the 2026 Excursion or Preferred programs.
Travel Period Covered: May 14–October 22, 2026
Opening Time: Reservations start at 8:00 a.m. EST

Important Dates:

Week 1 (January 13–19, 2026):

• Non-transferable reservations only.
• Reservations must be for your account; no bookings for others.

Week 2 (January 20-26, 2026):

• All reservation types allowed, including transferable bookings.
• You can book for others’ accounts.

Reservation Guidelines:

• Maximum of 10 one-way or round-trip reservations per account.
• Up to 5 reservations can be made in another person’s name.
• Of those 5, up to 3 can be marked as transferable.

Reservation Application Access:
Use the 2026 Headstart Reservation Application or contact support at (508) 477-8600 for assistance.

2026 Nantucket General Public Internet Opening

Opening Window: January 27, 2026
Travel Period Covered: May 14–October 22, 2026

Key Details:

Online Reservations Only:

• Reservations during the opening period cannot be made by phone.
• The Reservation Office is available daily from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for account assistance (passwords, PINs, etc.).

Virtual Waiting Room:

• Displays your place in line and estimated wait time.
• Removes the need to refresh your browser repeatedly.

Preparation Resources:
Stay prepared by reviewing the 2026 Reservation Packet (available soon).

For questions or assistance, call the Steamship Authority Reservation Line at (508) 477-8600.