MileHacker Logo
Marthas Vineyard Travel Resources

Marthas Vineyard Travel Resources

Marthas Vineyard Massachusetts, USA Travel Guide

Essential Apps for the Destination

Transportation & Weather

  • Steamship Authority App

    Check ferry schedules, book tickets, and receive real-time alerts.

  • VTA Bus Tracker App

    Locate buses and access schedules for easier public transit.

  • Uber/Lyft

    Ride-share services (note seasonal availability and pricing).

  • Weather Apps

    Monitor island weather, important in the hurricane season (June-November).

  • Google Maps/Apple Maps

    General navigation, directions, and locating points of interest. Download offline maps.

Planning & Information

  • MV Chamber of Commerce

    Good starting point for general information and events.

  • MV Online

    Comprehensive portal for island news, events, and resources.

  • Steamship Authority Website

    Essential for all ferry bookings and Woods Hole schedules.

  • Hy-Line Cruises

    For passenger-only ferry services from Hyannis.

  • VTA Website

    Bus schedules, routes, and fare information.

Useful Websites and Social Media

Conservation Lands

Information on conservation lands and outdoor activities.

The Trustees of Reservations

Island News & Guides

Features, dining guides, and event listings.

Martha's Vineyard Magazine

Social Media & Community

Visual inspiration and real-time updates from licensed tourism accounts and local news.

Podcasts and Digital Content

Local Stories

  • Search for 'Martha's Vineyard podcast' on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
  • Discover local stories and historical narratives.
  • Explore travel guides for island insights.
  • Digital content provides a rich perspective on the island.

Wampanoag Culture

  • Search for the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) official website.
  • Access cultural information directly from the source.
  • Discover upcoming cultural events.
  • Learn about their heritage and community.

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

  • General New England/Massachusetts guidebooks.
  • Local maps at visitor centers and ferry terminals.
  • Helpful for navigating roads and bike paths.
  • Publishers like Lp or Fodor's.

Local Publications

  • The Martha's Vineyard Times (free weekly/bi-weekly).
  • The Vineyard Gazette (free weekly/bi-weekly).
  • Seasonal Magazines like Martha's Vineyard Magazine.
  • Guides on where to eat, local culture features, and event listings.

Featured Books

  • The Whaling Captains of Martha's Vineyard by Arthur R. Railton.
  • Martha''s Vineyard: An Affectionate Memoir by Catherine Lane.
  • Jaws by Peter Benchley (famously filmed on island).
  • The History of Martha''s Grape farm by Charles Edward Banks.

Emergency & Medical Information

Important Contacts & Procedures

Emergency Numbers

  • Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Dial 911 immediately.
  • Martha''s Winery Hospital: (508) 693-0410.
  • Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222.
  • For any life-threatening situation.

Medical Facilities

  • Martha's Vineyard Hospital: 1 Hospital Rd, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557.
  • Island's main medical facility.
  • Offers emergency care and various health services.
  • Nearest full-service hospital.

International Visitors

  • Contact home country's embassy or consulate in the U.S.
  • Typically located in major cities like Washington D.C. Or Boston.
  • Keep their contact information readily available.
  • Useful for emergencies or lost documents.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Stay Informed

  • Monitor local weather alerts via radio, TV, or smartphone apps.
  • Stay informed, especially during hurricane season.
  • Follow instructions from local authorities.

Ferry Disruptions

  • Be prepared for potential evacuation orders in hurricane threats.
  • Expect ferry cancellations during adverse weather.
  • Have a contingency plan for your departure.

Lost Document Procedures

Lost/Stolen Passports

  • Report lost or stolen passports to local police immediately.
  • Contact your country's embassy or consulate in the U.S.
  • Seek assistance with replacement procedures.

Lost Credit/Debit Cards

  • Report lost or stolen cards to your bank immediately.
  • This prevents unauthorized transactions.
  • Banks have 24/7 hotlines for reporting.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries and Films

  1. Jaws (1975): The iconic film was famously shot on Martha''s Winery.
  2. Chappaquiddick (2018): A dramatization of the 1969 incident.
  3. PBS Documentaries: Often feature New England history plus nautical culture.
  4. Local Channels: May showcase documentaries on the island's natural beauty.
  5. These films connect you to the island's cinematic and historical past.

Music and Art Inspiration

  1. Listen to folk or maritime music for New England heritage vibes.
  2. This music helps set the mood for the island you're on visit.
  3. Explore websites of island artists to preview local art.
  4. Browse galleries to learn about the art scene.
  5. Connect with the island's creative spirit.

Online Communities & Forums

TripAdvisor Forum

A platform where travelers share tips, ask questions, and discuss experiences.

Reddit Communities

Search for communities related to Massachusetts or New England travel for additional insights.

Traveler Networks

Connect with other travelers and locals for personalized recommendations and stories.

Safety Alert

Always prioritize personal safety. For international visitors, keep embassy contact details accessible.

Planning & Resources Recap

Digital Resources

Ferry & Bus Apps

  • Steamship Authority App

    Check schedules, book tickets, and receive alerts.

  • VTA Bus Tracker App

    Real-time bus spots and schedules.

  • Weather Apps

    Monitor island weather, notably during hurricane season.

Information & Navigation

  • MV Chamber of Commerce

    General island information and events.

  • Navigation Apps

    For directions and finding points of interest, use offline maps.

  • MV Magazine/Online

    Local news, dining guides, and event listings.

Recommended Print Materials

Island Guidebooks

Comprehensive guides from publishers like Fodor's.

Detailed Local Maps

Pick up free maps at visitor centers for navigation.

Local Newspapers

The Vineyard Gazette and MV Times for local news and events.

Emergency Preparedness

Contacts

  • Dial 911 for all immediate emergencies.
  • Martha''s Vineyard Hospital: (508) 693-0410.
  • Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222.
  • International visitors: understand your embassy contact.

Safety Information

  • Monitor weather alerts, especially during hurricane season.
  • Be prepared for ferry disruptions during severe weather.
  • Report lost passports to police and your embassy.
  • Immediately report lost credit cards to your bank.

Further Exploration

Cultural Immersion

  • Watch 'Jaws' for iconic island scenery.
  • Listen to New England folk and maritime music.
  • Explore local art galleries and artist websites.
  • Discover island-themed literature and texts on history.

Community & Engagement

  • Join online travel forums for tips and discussions.
  • Follow official MV tourism social media accounts.
  • Connect with local businesses and community groups.
  • Engage respectfully with island residents.
← Previous
Marthas Vineyard Travel Hacks
← Back to Marthas Vineyard
Next →
Marthas Vineyard Travel Checklist

Next Up: Marthas Vineyard Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Continue to Marthas Vineyard Travel Checklist