28/08/2019
Planning a trip to the picturesque island of Martha's Vineyard often brings up a crucial question: how will you get around once you arrive? While the island boasts a charming atmosphere, its layout and the desire to explore its diverse beaches, towns, and natural beauty can make having your own transport incredibly convenient. Fortunately, Martha's Vineyard offers several excellent options for securing a vehicle, whether you're bringing your own or opting for a rental. This guide will delve into the primary ways to access a car on the island, covering rental agencies, the essential ferry service for vehicles, associated costs, and alternative transportation methods should you decide to leave your car on the mainland.
Renting a Car on Martha's Vineyard
For many visitors, the most straightforward approach to having a car on Martha's Vineyard is to rent one upon arrival. The island is well-served by local rental companies that cater specifically to the needs of tourists and residents alike. The most established and popular choices, providing reliable service for over two decades, are A-A Island Auto Rental and MV Auto Rental. These companies understand the unique demands of island travel and offer flexible rental periods, including daily, weekly, and even monthly options. This flexibility is ideal for visitors with varying trip lengths, ensuring you can secure a vehicle that perfectly suits your itinerary without unnecessary expense. When booking, it's always wise to compare rates between these providers to secure the best deal, especially during peak season.
The primary, and indeed the only, way to transport a car to Martha's Vineyard from the mainland is via the Massachusetts Steamship Authority. This vital service connects the mainland port of Woods Hole, Massachusetts, with the island. It's important to understand that this is the sole ferry service equipped to carry automobiles, making it an indispensable part of the journey for those who wish to bring their own vehicle. The Steamship Authority also operates freight vessels, underscoring its critical role in the island's logistics.
Understanding Ferry Operations and Potential Disruptions
While the Steamship Authority is a reliable service, it's essential to be aware of potential operational challenges. As experienced during a past incident where a failed air conditioning unit led to server downtime, the website and reservation system can become temporarily unavailable. This can impact the ability to make new reservations online, by phone, or at the terminals. In such situations, passenger tickets can often still be purchased at ferry terminals, and existing reservations are typically honoured. However, vehicle travel on a last-minute, standby basis might be the only option if the system is down. It is highly recommended to check the Steamship Authority's official website or social media channels for the most current information regarding schedules, reservation availability, and any service disruptions before your travel date. Being informed can save considerable stress and ensure a smoother journey.
Ferry Costs and Reservation Essentials
The cost of taking your car to Martha's Vineyard via the Steamship Authority is a significant consideration. The round-trip fare from Woods Hole to the Vineyard typically starts at $180.00, with the final price depending on the size of your vehicle. It's crucial to factor in additional charges for passengers beyond the first two; these are usually around $17.00 per person for a round trip. Perhaps the most critical piece of advice for vehicle transport during the high season (generally July and August) is the absolute necessity of a reservation. Boats, especially on weekends, sell out frequently. While standby is sometimes permitted, it offers no guarantee of boarding the next available ferry. Planning and booking your vehicle reservation well in advance is paramount to avoid disappointment. Beyond the ferry itself, be prepared for potential traffic congestion and parking challenges on the island during these peak months. Outside of July and August, navigating and parking are generally more manageable.
Alternative: Leaving Your Car on the Mainland
For shorter stays, or if you prefer to avoid the costs and potential hassles associated with bringing your car, leaving it on the mainland is a perfectly viable and often recommended option. The Steamship Authority operates several satellite parking lots, with the primary one located at Palmer Avenue in Falmouth. Parking fees typically range from $12 to $15 per calendar day. From these lots, a shuttle service runs to the Woods Hole boat terminal at regular intervals, usually every 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the season. This shuttle service makes the transition from your car to the ferry seamless. For those travelling without a vehicle, walk-on passenger fares are considerably less expensive, with adult round-trip tickets costing around $17 and child (5-12 years) or bicycle round-trip tickets around $9. It's important to note that there is no parking available directly at the Woods Hole ferry terminal itself. For real-time information on parking lot availability, a dedicated phone number (508-457-7275) is provided, while general reservations and information can be obtained by calling 508-477-8600.
Island Transportation Without Your Car
Martha's Vineyard offers a surprisingly robust public transportation system and a variety of other options for getting around once you've arrived without your vehicle. Taxis are readily available, and the island has a public bus system that connects various towns and attractions. Ride-sharing services like Uber also operate on the island, providing convenient door-to-door transport. For those seeking more active exploration, bicycles are a popular choice, and their rental is widely available. Even motorized bikes can be rented, offering a bit more assistance on the island's rolling terrain.
A Word of Caution on Mopeds
While mopeds are available for rent on the Vineyard, typically costing around $60-100 per day, it's important to consider the practicalities. Island roads can be narrow, and mopeds are restricted to a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour. This can lead to potentially hazardous situations, as larger vehicles frequently attempt to overtake them. While the final decision rests with you, the general recommendation is to exercise extreme caution or consider alternative modes of transport for safety reasons.
Comparison of Transportation Options
To help you decide, here's a quick comparison of the main ways to navigate Martha's Vineyard:
| Option | Pros | Cons | Estimated Cost (Round Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bring Your Own Car | Convenience of personal vehicle, flexibility for exploring remote areas. | High ferry cost, need for reservations, potential parking/traffic issues in peak season. | $180+ (vehicle) + $34+ (2 passengers) | Families, longer stays, those needing to transport gear. |
| Rent a Car on Island | No ferry hassle for your car, flexibility on the island. | Rental costs, need to book in advance, availability can be limited. | Varies ($70-$150+ per day, depending on vehicle and season) | Visitors who prefer not to bring their own car, shorter stays needing convenient transport. |
| Use Public Transport/Taxis/Uber | Cost-effective, environmentally friendly, no parking worries. | Limited by routes and schedules, may not reach all desired locations easily. | Low (Bus fares are minimal, Uber/taxi costs vary) | Budget-conscious travellers, shorter trips, those staying in main towns. |
| Bicycle/Motorized Bike | Great for exercise, exploring scenic routes, eco-friendly. | Weather dependent, can be tiring for long distances, requires physical effort. | $30-$80+ per day (rental) | Active individuals, exploring coastal paths and town centres. |
| Moped (with caution) | Offers some independence, easier to park than cars. | Safety concerns due to speed limits and road conditions, limited range. | $60-$100+ per day | Short, local trips by confident riders aware of risks. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need to make a car reservation for the ferry to Martha's Vineyard?
Yes, during the high season (typically June through September), reservations for vehicles are highly recommended and often essential, as ferries can sell out well in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
Q2: How much does it cost to take a car on the ferry?
The round-trip cost for a standard vehicle on the Steamship Authority ferry starts at approximately $180.00, with additional charges for passengers beyond the first two.
Q3: Where can I rent a car on Martha's Vineyard?
The primary car rental companies on Martha's Vineyard are A-A Island Auto Rental and MV Auto Rental.
Q4: What are the alternatives to bringing or renting a car?
Alternatives include using the island's public bus system, taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber, renting bicycles, or even motorized bikes.
Q5: Is it worth bringing my car to Martha's Vineyard?
This depends on your trip length, budget, and planned activities. For short stays (1-2 days), using island transport is often more convenient and cost-effective. For longer stays, families with young children, or those planning extensive exploration, bringing or renting a car can provide valuable flexibility.
In conclusion, whether you choose to bring your own vehicle, rent one on the island, or rely on the diverse public and private transportation options available, Martha's Vineyard is accessible and explorable. Careful planning, especially regarding ferry reservations and understanding the costs involved, will ensure your journey to and around this beautiful island is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
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