The Cost of a Trip between Boston, Massachusetts and Barnstable, Massachusetts: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling between Boston and Barnstable makes for a pleasant day trip, weekend getaway, or summer vacation destination. The route covers a distance of approximately 73 miles, which can be traveled by car, bus, train, or ferry. However, before deciding on the mode of transportation, it is essential to consider the cost as it can vary significantly depending on gas prices, time of the year, and route taken. In this article, we will discuss the different routes available, their costs, and recommend the most cost-effective option based on current gas prices.
Route 1: The Most Direct Route
The most direct route between Boston and Barnstable is by car via Route 6. This popular route covers a distance of about 73 miles and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes without traffic. However, during peak season, the journey can take up to 2 and a half hours due to increased traffic. According to GasBuddy, as of August 2021, the average gas price in Massachusetts is $3.06 per gallon. If your car has a fuel efficiency of 24 miles per gallon, you'll need about 3 gallons of gas for a one-way trip, which will cost you $9.18.
Route 2: The Scenic Route
If you're looking for a more scenic route between Boston and Barnstable, consider taking Route 28. Although it covers a longer distance of approximately 86 miles and takes longer to get there, the views along the way make up for the additional time. According to GasBuddy, you can expect to use around 3.5 gallons of gas on this route, which brings the cost of gas to $10.71.
Route 3: The Train Route
If driving is not your preferred mode of transportation, consider taking the CapeFLYER, a train that goes between Boston and Hyannis, which is near Barnstable. The train ride takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, and the one-way fare is $22. You'll need to take a bus or taxi for the final 10-minute leg of the journey from Hyannis to Barnstable. According to GasBuddy, taking the train would save you about $2.28 on gas.
Route 4: The Bus Route
Another option is taking the Plymouth & Brockton Street Railway Co. bus service, which offers several trips per day between Boston and Barnstable. The one-way ticket costs around $38, and the journey takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. According to GasBuddy, taking the bus would save you around $1.62 due to the distance traveled.
Route 5: The Ferry Route
One of the most popular ways to travel between Boston and the Cape is by ferry. This method of transportation provides scenic views of the coastline and is an excellent option for those who are traveling without a car. Although there are several ferry companies that operate along the route, we'll use the high-speed ferry service operated by Boston Harbor Cruises as an example. The one-way fare costs $55, and the journey takes approximately 90 minutes. According to GasBuddy, taking the ferry would save you around $12.54 on gas.
The Most Cost-Effective Route
Taking into consideration the cost and convenience of the different routes, if you're traveling alone or with a couple and looking to save some money on gas, the best option is to take Route 6 by car. It's the most direct route and is the cheapest option, with a one-way cost of $9.18. The second-best option is taking the train, which is more expensive but provides a less stressful journey.
Conclusion
Traveling from Boston to Barnstable is a great way to escape the city and enjoy some picturesque views of the New England coastline. The cost of getting there can vary depending on the mode of transportation and gas prices. After considering the different routes available, we recommend taking Route 6 by car as the most cost-effective option. With an affordable one-way cost of $9.18, you can enjoy a scenic drive while saving some money on gas. The journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway.