One of the top questions I’m asked is whether or not to bring a car to the island. It’ complicated. If you are here for one or two days, I suggest leaving the car behind and explore using other transportation methods. However, if you have young children or are traveling with older people, I recommend a car, so you’re able to see and appreciate the scenic beauty of the island without the hassle of multiple bus transfers and lengthy town walks.
To take your car:
The Steamship Authority in Woods Hole Massachusetts is the only ferry bringing cars to Martha’s Vineyard. The cost is $180.00 or higher (depends on the size of the vehicle) round trip to travel from Woods Hole to the Vineyard. Additional charges per person will apply for any passengers over 2 ($17.00 rt). Also, you must have a reservation for your car during the high season. There are times when standby is allowed, though getting the next ferry is not guaranteed. Boats sellout frequently during the high season, especially on the weekends. Additionally, you will need to cope with traffic and parking issues once you get here during July and August—the rest of the year, it’s workable.
Or leave it on the Mainland:
The Steamship Authority has many satellite parking lots, the main one being Palmer Ave in Falmouth ($12-15 per calendar day). A free shuttle is available to the Woods Hole boat every 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the time of year. Walk-on passengers are ($17 round-trip adults; $9 round-trip children 5-12; $9 round-trip bicycles). Please note that there is no parking available at the Woods Hole ferry terminal. To get real-time information about parking lot availability, call 508-457-7275. Otherwise, for reservations and general information call 508-477-8600.
No car? No worries!
Once you get to the Vineyard, there are plenty of transportation options depending on your needs. We have taxis, a public bus system, Uber, car rentals, bikes, even motorized bikes. Just a little public service announcement. Mopeds are available for rent on the Vineyard for around $60-100 a day, BUT the roads are narrow; the cars are big and are forever trying to pass you because Mopeds are only allowed to go 25 miles an hour. We do NOT recommend mopeds. However, you are all adults; you can make the call.
