So You Want to Ditch Beantown for the Vineyard? A Ferry Travel Time Tell-All
Ah, Martha's Vineyard. The land of sprawling beaches, charming cottages, and enough seafood to make your tastebuds do a happy dance. But before you can cavort with the Kennedys (or at least pretend to), you gotta get there. And for many, that means braving the high seas (or at least the not-so-high Martha's Vineyard Sound) by ferry.
But here's the question that's likely churning in your lobster roll-addled mind: exactly how long does that ferry ride take?
Tip: Use this post as a starting point for exploration.
Fear not, intrepid traveler! This guide will break down the ferry ride from Boston to Martha's Vineyard like a seasoned fisherman shucking an oyster. Buckle up (or should we say, tie your knots?) and get ready to set sail on a sea of knowledge!
Tip: Share this article if you find it helpful.
The Great Ferry Forecast: How Long Will You Be at Sea?
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
The truth is, the travel time from Boston to Martha's Vineyard by ferry can vary depending on a few factors, like which ferry company you choose and where exactly you're headed on the island. But fret not, landlubber, we've got the skinny on the most common routes:
QuickTip: Take a pause every few paragraphs.
- Steamship Authority: This is the big kahuna of Martha's Vineyard ferries, offering routes from both Boston and Woods Hole (a.k.a. the more car-ferry friendly option). The ride from Woods Hole to Vineyard Haven clocks in at around 1 hour and 45 minutes, while the Boston trip is a bit longer at 3 hours and 15 minutes.
- Seastreak: If you're short on time and big on speed, Seastreak is your jam. Their high-speed ferry rockets you from New Bedford, Massachusetts to Oak Bluffs in a mere 1 hour. Just keep in mind that Seastreak is a seasonal service, so check their schedule before you book.
But Wait, There's More! Ferry Travel Time Hacks for the Savvy Traveler
- Be a bus buddy: Many ferry companies partner with bus lines to offer combo tickets that take you straight from Boston to the ferry terminal. This can be a great way to save time and avoid the hassle of navigating public transportation.
- Car ferry or foot ferry? If you're bringing your own wheels, then a car ferry is a must. But if you're feeling fancy-free and want to explore the island by bike or foot, a passenger ferry is the way to go. Just remember, car ferries tend to take a bit longer due to loading and unloading.
How to Get There From Here: Your Martha's Vineyard Ferry FAQ
Alright, alright, we know you're itching to hit the beach. So here's a quick rundown of some commonly asked ferry travel questions:
- How do I book a ferry to Martha's Vineyard? You can book your ferry online directly through the ferry company's website.
- What should I bring on the ferry? Pack some snacks, drinks, a good book, and maybe some seasickness medication (just in case).
- Can I bring my car on the ferry? Yes, but only on certain ferries. Make sure to check with the ferry company before you book.
- Where are the ferries in Boston that go to Martha's Vineyard? Most ferries depart from either Long Wharf or the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area.
- How much is a ferry to Martha's Vineyard? Ferry prices vary depending on the season, the day of the week, and whether you're bringing a car. But you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 or more for a round-trip ticket.
Now that you're armed with ferry knowledge, set sail for Martha's Vineyard and enjoy your island adventure! Just be sure to send back a postcard (or at least an Instagram story).