How to Get to Marthas Vineyard. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Martha's Vineyard

Major Airports & Airlines

Martha's Vineyard Airport (MVY) is the island's only airport, for regional flights. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and T.F. Green Airport (PVD) in Providence, RI, are significant mainland hubs. Travelers fly into BOS or PVD and connect to MVY or opt for ground transport and a ferry. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flight deals.

Seasonal MVY Service

American Airlines: BOS, CLT, DCA, PHL, LGA (seasonal).
Delta: JFK, LGA (seasonal).
JetBlue: JFK, BOS, DCA, EWR (seasonal).

Year-Round & International Flights

Cape Air offers year-round service from Boston (BOS), Hyannis (HYA), Nantucket (ACK), New Bedford (EWB), Providence (PVD), and Westchester County (HPN), using smaller propeller planes. No direct international flights land at MVY. International travelers fly into a major U.S. Hub (BOS, JFK, EWR) and next connect to MVY via domestic flights or ground transportation and a ferry transfer. Flights to MVY are significantly higher during peak summer, so book well in advance.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

MVY is a small terminal with limited services (rental cars, taxis, snack bar).
From MVY: Taxis, rideshare, VTA bus (Route 13 to Vineyard Haven/Edgartown), hotel shuttles, rental cars.
From BOS/PVD to ferry: Bus (Peter Pan Bus), rental car, private car assistance to Woods Hole.

Land Transportation

No international border crossings for domestic travel. No direct train service to Woods Hole; Amtrak to Offernce/Boston then bus/car.

Bus & Driving

Peter Pan Bus Lines offers seasonal direct service from Boston (South Station, Logan Airport) and Providence to Woods Hole. Driving to Woods Hole takes 1.5-2 hours from Boston, 1 hour from Providence.

Vehicle Ferry & Parking

Bringing your car is possible but difficult; book vehicle ferry spots months in advance. Paid long-term parking lots available near Woods Hole ferry terminal.

Road Conditions & Safety

On-Island Driving

Roads on Martha's Vineyard are generally good, with lower speed limits.
Traffic can be heavy in towns like Edgartown and Oak Bluffs in summer.
Parking is often challenging and expensive in these towns.
Many accommodations offer parking for guests.

Safety Tips

Watch for bikers and pedestrians, especially in towns and near bike paths.
Deer are common, specifically at dusk and dawn in rural areas; drive with caution.
Always lock your vehicle and secure valuables.
Do not leave valuables visible in your car.

Sea and River Arrivals to Martha's Vineyard

The Steamship Authority

Main ferry operator, year-round service by Woods Hole to Vineyard Haven, and seasonal service to Oak Bluffs. Offers both car and passenger service.

Hy-Line Cruises & Seastreak

Hy-Line offers seasonal passenger-only service from Hyannis to Oak Bluffs. Seastreak provides seasonal passenger-only service by New Bedford and New York City to Oak Bluffs.

Other Ferries & Connections

Falmouth Edgartown Ferry (seasonal, passenger-only). Ferry terminals offer convenient access to taxis, VTA public bus routes, and rental car pick-up points.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Air Departure

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing Martha's Vineyard. Costs are generally included in your initial ticket price. For air travel from Martha's Vineyard Airport (MVY), arrive at least 1 to 1.FIVE hours ahead of your scheduled departure, especially for Cape Air flights.

MVY Departure Tips

Security lines at MVY are usually short.
Always allow extra time, especially during peak travel periods.
Limited facilities at MVY: small waiting area, restrooms, snack bar.

Ferry Departure Procedures

For passenger ferry travel, arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. Ticket checks and boarding are generally efficient, but terminals can be busy during peak times. For vehicle ferry travel, arrive at the designated check-in time, typically 30 to 60 minutes before departure, as stated on your reservation.

Vehicle Ferry Tips

Vehicles load in a specific order; missing your time forfeits reservation.
Ferry ports have small waiting areas, restrooms, some with snack stands.
Confirm departure times and check for travel alerts (weather-related cancellations).

Pre-Departure Checklist

Review these points before you leave the island.

Ensure Smooth Exit

All reservations confirmed.
Check-in times noted for air/ferry.
All belongings packed.

Post-Visit Reflections

Consider sending a postcard to remember your trip.

Memories to Cherish

Review your photos.
Write down your preferred memories.
Share your experiences with others.

Important Travel Alerts

Weather can cause ferry cancellations; check Steamship Authority.
Peak season traffic adds time it takes to get to mainland airports.
Always allow buffer time for transfers and check-ins.

Vehicle ferry spots sell out quickly; confirm reservation well in advance.
Rideshare availability on island varies by season and demand.
Be mindful of parking restrictions plus expenses in towns.

Getting Around Martha's Vineyard

Public Transportation VTA

The Martha's Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) offers an effective way to explore the island without a private vehicle. It brings comprehensive service linking all major towns and attractions during peak season, with more limited year-round service. The VTA is convenient, economical, and environmentally friendly.

Routes & Fares

Network connects all major towns and attractions.
Single rides: $1.50-$2.50. Day passes: $8 (1-day), $15 (3-day), $25 (7-day).
Payment: Cash (exact change) or VTA pass. Passes available at terminals, on buses, retail.
Summer frequency: 15-30 mins on key thoroughfares, early morning to late evening.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient, on-demand transportation, especially useful for specific destinations or late-night travel. Licensed taxis are available in large towns. Fares are either regulated, metered, or flat rates, and can be expensive. Most taxis accept cash and major credit cards.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Uber is available seasonally, mainly in summer, with surge pricing possible.
Lyft is less prevalent but also available seasonally.
For ride-sharing, verify driver's name, vehicle, and license plate. Share trip details.
Pre-book taxis during off-peak seasons or late at night for availability.

Car Rental

Requires valid driver's license, credit card, and minimum age (21/25+). Major and local companies (Hertz, Budget, Avis, Thrifty, Sun 'n' Fun Rentals) operate. Extremely limited and expensive in summer; book well in advance.

Scooters & Bikes

Motorcycle and scooter rentals popular in summer ($70-120+/day). Bicycle rentals widely available ($25-50/day). Helmets mandatory for scooters, recommended for bikes. Roads busy; drive with caution.

Driving & Parking

Standard Massachusetts driving laws apply; lower speed limits. Roads well-maintained. Parking challenging and expensive in Edgartown/Oak Bluffs in summer. Check signs for metered, paid, or resident-only zones.

Walking and Cycling on Martha's Vineyard

Pedestrian-friendly towns:Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven

Scenic boardwalks:Oak Bluffs Harbor Walk

Walking tours:Guided in Edgartown, Oak Bluffs

Bike paths:Extensive network links towns

Popular bike route:Beach Road (Oak Bluffs to Edgartown)

Safety:Wear helmets, follow traffic laws

Accessibility Services

All VTA buses are wheelchair accessible.
Martha's Vineyard Hospital offers mobility assistance.
Accessible mat pathways are at some beaches (Sobe, Inkwell Beach).
Inquire with sights/accommodations about specific accessibility.

Specialized Transport

Island excursions offer narrated overviews (Vineyard Sightseeing, Island Excursions).

Chappy Ferry connects Edgartown to Chappaquiddick Island. Private boat charters available for fishing or sightseeing. No cable cars or funiculars. Golf cart rentals in Oak Bluffs are restricted to town roads.

How to Get to Marthas Vineyard