Known for its undisturbed natural grandeur, classic whaling centers and tranquil island atmosphere, Martha’s Vineyard is a highly sought-after island getaway.
Getting to the Vineyard is a bit more complicated than a regular seaside break, but it is absolutely worth it. Martha’s Vineyard is situated six miles south of Cape Cod in Massachusetts and can only be reached by ferry or plane – there are no bridges or tunnels. There are a variety of ferry choices that vary based on the season and if you are taking a car with you. There are various ways to reach the island, including traveling by car, ferry, or plane.
But if you are traveling with a car, it’s very important to remember these travel tips!
Bringing a car to Martha’s Vineyard? Take note of this!
The Steamship Authority is the only ferry service that operates for cars throughout the year, departing from Woods Hole on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and it takes about an hour for a single journey.
You must make a reservation for your car in advance either by visiting their website or calling 508.477.8600.
Take note that due to being the only car-ferry provider, the Steamship Authority service sells out even earlier than the passenger-only ferries!
Traveling to Martha’s Vineyard without a car
The Steamship Authority, leaving Woods Hole, also transports people without vehicles and gives more than twelve voyages per day.
During the time period between the start of May and Labor Day, ferry service for passengers only is offered from New Bedford, Hyannis, Falmouth, and Nantucket in Massachusetts, as well as Quonset Point in Rhode Island, New York City, and Northern New Jersey.
The ports that offer service to Martha’s Vineyard and the ferry service providers include the following:
- Woods Hole, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) via Steamship Authority – 45 minutes
- Hyannis, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Hy-Line Cruises – 1 hour
- New Bedford, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Seastreak – 45 minutes
- Falmouth, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Island Queen – 35 minutes
- Nantucket, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Hy-Line Cruises – 1 hour
- New York City, NY to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Seastreak – 5 hours 15 minutes
- New Jersey to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Seastreak – 6 hours
- Rhode Island to Martha’s Vineyard (Oaks Bluff) via Vineyard Fast Ferry – 1 hour 45 minutes
- Falmouth, MA to Martha’s Vineyard (Edgartown) via Falmouth-Edgartown Ferry – 1 hour
Travel to Martha’s Vineyard by plane
Year-round flights to Martha’s Vineyard Airport from Logan International Airport in Boston (BOS) can be taken with Cape Air or Private Air Charters. During the summer months, travelers can get direct flights to this location from JetBlue at both Logan Airport in Boston and JFK in New York City, Delta Air Lines from LaGuardia Airport in New York City, and American Airlines from Washington, D.C.
When you arrive at Martha’s Vineyard Airport
When you arrive at the Martha’s Vineyard Airport, you can utilize various transport services such as renting a car from Avis, Budget, or Hertz, using a taxi, employing a private car, or taking the bus.
Booking a car rental ahead of time is particularly suggested if you plan to visit the Vineyard during summertime. The Vineyard Transit Authority provides seasonal and reliable bus routes between Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, Aquinnah, Chilmark, and West Tisbury; the frequency of service depends on when you visit. If you are a cyclist, touring the island by bicycle is an amazing choice, and the Martha’s Vineyard taxis are ready to transport your bike, so you don’t have to take your car.
When you’re booking a vacation rental in Martha’s Vineyard, it’s wise to think about whether you’ll need a car. Many of our properties are in Oak Bluffs and there are plenty of places to hire bikes. However, we usually suggest renting a car so that you can take advantage of the stunning beaches that the island is known for.
