Martha’s Vineyard, a picturesque island off the coast of Massachusetts, is accessible via several ferry services catering to passengers from various locations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best ferry option based on your starting point and preferences. From The New York City area, these ferries can take out hours of driving/traffic. The first three don’t require crossing The Bourne Bridge making getting to the island that much easier.
1. Seastreak Fast Ferry from New Jersey/New York
Seastreak offers seasonal ferry service from Highlands, NJ, and East 35th Street, NYC, directly to Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard. The journey takes approximately five hours, providing a scenic and convenient route for travelers without a car. As of the 2024 season, departures were scheduled at 12:00 PM from Highlands and 1:30 PM from NYC, arriving at 6:00 PM in Oak Bluffs. Please note that schedules may vary, and it’s advisable to check for the latest updates for the 2025 season. (seastreak.com)
2. Vineyard Fast Ferry from Quonset Point, Rhode Island
Operating seasonally from May through October, the Vineyard Fast Ferry departs from Quonset Point in North Kingstown, RI. Dockside parking is available at $15 per calendar day. For travelers using Amtrak, the Providence Station is approximately a 25-minute shuttle ride to the ferry terminal; reservations for the shuttle are required. The ferry crossing to Martha’s Vineyard takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. It’s important to consider potential weather-related cancellations, so monitoring forecasts and ferry service updates is recommended. (fastferry.com)
3. Seastreak from New Bedford, Massachusetts
Seastreak provides service from New Bedford, MA, to Martha’s Vineyard. Valet parking is available at the New Bedford terminal for $30 per calendar day during the season. Non-valet parking is available for $15 per calendar day. Offsite parking is also offered at the Whales Tooth parking lot, with complimentary shuttle service to the pier. For travelers flying into T.F. Green Airport in Providence, RI, the terminal is approximately a 45-minute drive to New Bedford. Schedules and fares can vary, so it’s best to consult Seastreak’s official website for the most current information. (seastreak.com)
4. Island Queen Ferry from Falmouth, Massachusetts
The Island Queen operates seasonally from Falmouth, MA, to Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard. The ferry ride is approximately 35 minutes. Parking is available within walking distance of the ferry terminal at $20 per calendar day (cash only). Travelers should be aware that reaching Falmouth requires crossing the Bourne Bridge onto Cape Cod, which can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak travel times. (islandqueen.com)
5. Patriot Party Boats from Falmouth, Massachusetts
Patriot Party Boats offers a water shuttle service between Falmouth and Oak Bluffs. While specific schedules and fares are not detailed online, the service is known for its resilience in operating under various weather conditions when other ferries might not. The experience is described as a bit rugged, appealing to those seeking a straightforward and dependable crossing. (patriotpartyboats.com)
6. Steamship Authority from Woods Hole, Massachusetts
The Steamship Authority provides year-round ferry service from Woods Hole, MA, to Martha’s Vineyard. Passenger tickets can be purchased at all Steamship Authority Terminals, as well as Peter Pan and Plymouth & Brockton Bus Terminals. Both Peter Pan and Plymouth & Brockton buses offer transportation to the ferry terminal, making it accessible for those without a car. The Steamship Authority operates early and late boats, accommodating a variety of travel schedules. (steamshipauthority.com)
When planning your trip to Martha’s Vineyard, consider factors such as travel time, parking availability, proximity to your starting location, and potential weather impacts on ferry operations. Always check the latest schedules and fare information from the ferry operators’ official websites to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
