Travelers from Long Island can reach Martha’s Vineyard using a combination of passenger ferries, trains, or car ferries. While there’s no direct ferry from Long Island to the Vineyard, the most seamless route involves driving or taking the LIRR to Orient Point, riding the Cross Sound Ferry to Connecticut, then connecting through train or drive to Woods Hole for the Steamship Authority ferry—a convenient, scenic, and increasingly popular travel option during peak season.
Possible Routes
- Cross Sound Ferry (Passenger & vehicle)
- Departure: Orient Point, Long Island, NY
- Arrival: New London, CT
- Steamship Authority (Passenger & vehicle)
- Departure: Woods Hole, MA
- Arrival: Vineyard Haven, year-round & Oak Bluffs, seasonal (May–October)
- Hy-Line Cruises (Passenger-only, high-speed)
- Departure: Hyannis, MA
- Arrival: Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard (seasonal)
Ferry Schedule
| Segment | Route | Typical Travel Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orient Point → New London | Cross Sound Ferry | ~75 minutes | Year-round, ~32/day |
| Woods Hole → Vineyard Haven | Steamship Authority | ~45 minutes | Year-round daily |
| Woods Hole → Oak Bluffs | Steamship Authority | ~45 minutes | Seasonal (May–Oct) |
| Hyannis → Oak Bluffs | Hy-Line Cruises (passenger) | ~60 minutes | Seasonal high-speed |
Note: Ferry schedules are subject to seasonal and weather-related changes. Please confirm the latest timings before your trip.
Ticket Prices
| Ferry Segment | One-Way Adult | Round-Trip Adult | Child | Vehicle (Car) | Bicycle |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cross Sound Ferry | ~$28 | ~$55 | ~$14 | Included in fare | Included |
| Steamship Authority (passenger) | $10.50 | $21 | $5.50| Car: $121–$170 OW / $242–$340 RT | $5/10 | |
| Hy-Line Cruises (passenger-only) | $38 | $72 | $23 | Not permitted | $8/16 |
Footnote: Infants under 5 travel free on Steamship Authority and Hy-Line for passenger fare.
Note: Ticket prices may vary depending on the season or special events. Please check with the operator for the latest fares.
How to Buy Tickets
- Cross Sound Ferry: Book online via Cross Sound Ferry website or phone.
- Steamship Authority: Purchase at Steamship Authority booking page, by phone, or at Woods Hole/Vineyard terminals.
- Hy-Line Cruises: Reserve online through Hy-Line Cruises site or by calling their reservation line.
Travel Tips
- Timing: Cross Sound runs year-round; Island ferries are busier May–October.
- Arrive early: For vehicle ferries, aim for 45–60 minutes before departure. Walk-on passengers should be there 30 minutes early.
- Vehicle reservations: Required (& may sell out) on Steamship Authority. Book well in advance for summer weekends.
- Bicycles: Allowed on all ferries—Steamship Authority ($5/10), Hy-Line ($8/16), Cross Sound includes bikes.
- Connections: Factor in LIRR schedules or driving time between Orient Point → New London and New London → Woods Hole (via I-95 MA Turnpike).
Onboard Experience
- Cross Sound Ferry: Features indoor seating, restrooms, snack bar, and scenic deck space.
- Steamship Authority: Offers spacious cabins, outdoor decks, restrooms, vending options, and vehicle decks with crew assistance.
- Hy-Line Cruises: High-speed catamarans with climate-controlled interiors, outdoor lounges, restrooms, full-service bar and snack service.
- Accessibility: All ferries provide ADA-compliant boarding and restrooms.
Nearby Attractions
Orient Point (Departing LI):
- Orient State Park and nearby beaches—ideal if arriving early.
Woods Hole (Steamship Departure):
- Visit the Oceanographic Institution, Shark Center, or enjoy seafood dockside.
Hyannis (Hy-Line departure):
- Explore Main Street, local shops, and waterfront dining.
Martha’s Vineyard Arrival Ports:
- Vineyard Haven: Quaint downtown, ferry terminals, art galleries.
- Oak Bluffs: Famous flying horses carousel, colorful gingerbread cottages, and sandy Ocean Park.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is there a direct ferry from Long Island to Martha’s Vineyard?
No; you must connect via Cross Sound Ferry to Connecticut or drive/train to Cape Cod before boarding an island ferry. - Can I bring my car on the ferry?
Yes—on Cross Sound and Steamship Authority services, but High-Speed Hy-Line is passenger-only. - Are bicycles allowed?
Yes—fees apply (typically $5–8 one-way), with bike racks or storage on each ferry . - Do I need reservations?
Vehicle reservations are required for Cross Sound and Steamship Authority, and strongly advised for Hy-Line during summer . - How long is the journey?
Orient Point–New London: ~75 minutes; Woods Hole–MV: ~45 minutes; Hyannis–Oak Bluffs: ~60 minutes. - Is food available onboard?
Yes—most ferries offer snack bars, vending machines, or full-service bars. - Are pets allowed?
Policies vary—Cross Sound allows small pets in carriers; check Steamship Authority and Hy-Line rules before travel. - What happens if my ferry is canceled?
Weather-related cancellations are rare, but operators typically offer refunds or rebooking options.