FerryConnect

USA

Woods Hole → Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven)

The year-round car ferry from Cape Cod to Martha’s Vineyard, run by the Steamship Authority. Vehicle space in summer is famously limited, so most visitors go as foot passengers and use the island’s buses and bikes.

Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) takes 45m across the Vineyard Sound, operated by Steamship Authority. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: frequent sailings year-round; seasonal sailings also to Oak Bluffs.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-10-02.

Sources: steamshipauthority.com · How we verify

Return crossing: Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) to Woods Hole

Steamship Authority also sails Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) to Woods Hole, taking 45m.

Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Daily, year-round sailings from Woods Hole; the Steamship Authority says the trip to Martha’s Vineyard takes 45 minutes.

Seasonal schedules: 11 September – 22 October 2026, then 23 October 2026 – 5 January 2027. Ticket offices at Vineyard Haven (year-round) and Oak Bluffs (seasonal).

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Steamship Authority timetable →Check prices & book on Steamship Authority →

Source: Steamship Authority schedules page. Verified 2026-10-02.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Woods Hole and Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven)

📐 7 Nautical Miles
Woods Hole⇄Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven)
⏱ 45m · 📐 7 nm
⚓ Operator website

Ready to cross from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven)?

Book your crossing with Steamship Authority: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Steamship Authority45mIsland Home, Martha’s Vineyard, Woods Hole

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

7 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Steamship Authority parking lots in Falmouth/Bourne run free shuttle buses to Woods Hole in season
  • Vineyard Haven terminal connects with VTA island buses to Oak Bluffs, Edgartown and Aquinnah

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book a car on the Martha’s Vineyard ferry?
Yes, vehicle reservations are essential in summer and often sell out when bookings open early in the year. Foot passengers can usually buy tickets on the day.
Do I need a reservation to take my car to Martha’s Vineyard?
Yes. The Steamship Authority says advance vehicle reservations are required. Foot passengers can buy tickets at the terminal on the day of sailing.
How long is the ferry from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven)?
The crossing typically takes 45m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) ferry sail?
Daily, year-round sailings from Woods Hole; the Steamship Authority says the trip to Martha’s Vineyard takes 45 minutes. Seasonal schedules: 11 September – 22 October 2026, then 23 October 2026 – 5 January 2027. Ticket offices at Vineyard Haven (year-round) and Oak Bluffs (seasonal). This is the pattern published in the Steamship Authority schedules page (checked 2026-10-02); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven)?
Steamship Authority operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take the Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Woods Hole from Martha’s Vineyard (Vineyard Haven) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 7 nautical miles (roughly 13 km).