Martha's Vineyard Travel - By Car - Destination Insider Martha's Vineyard - Official Insider Guide To Martha's Vineyard

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HOW TO GET HERE - BY CAR

If you're planning to travel to Martha's Vineyard by car, one of the most important decisions you'll make is whether or not to bring your car to the island. Here is some information which may make the decision easier:

OPTION 1: Leave Your Car Behind
Most people traveling to Martha's Vineyard choose to leave their car on the mainland. The island's convenient shuttle bus system, beach trolleys, bicycle trails, taxis, tours and car rentals make it easy to get around to sightsee and explore. As a general rule of thumb, if you are coming to the island for four (4) nights or less, it is usually best to leave your car behind. Good reasons to leave your car behind:

Bringing a car can be expensive. During the summer season, the round-trip fee for a standard size passenger car is around $125.00 (not including extra passengers).
Bringing a car may add stress to your vacation. The island’s roads are narrow and were not designed to accommodate a large number of cars. During the summer, traffic can be heavy when trying to get around the island. Finding available parking can be a difficult task as well.

If you plan to leave your car on the mainland, you can park in one of the lots maintained by the ferry companies for a reasonable fee. Once you determine which ferry company is the most convenient for your travel plans, you can visit their website -- or contact them by phone -- for specific information about parking fees and driving directions.

OPTION 2: Bring Your Car To The Island
There are certainly times when it can make more sense to bring your car to the island. Generally speaking, if you are staying for four (4) nights or longer, the convenience and/or cost-benefit of bringing your car can outweigh other considerations. Good reasons to bring your car to the island:

Bringing a car can be more cost-effective. If you are staying for a longer period of time, the cost of taxis, shuttles and/or car rental fees can outweigh the cost of bringing your car on the ferry -- especially if you plan on getting about and around the island a good deal during your visit.
Bringing a car can be more convenient. If you are traveling with small children, bringing a lot of gear or luggage, or are staying in a more rural part of the island, having a car can make your stay much more convenient and enjoyable.

Helpful Information and Web Links:
If you plan on bringing your car to Martha's Vineyard, you MUST make advance car ferry reservations with the Steamship Authority, which sails year-round from Woods Hole, MA (on Cape Cod). Reservations for the summer season go on sale in February, and do sell out months in advance. Therefore keep in mind that getting a car reservation for the summer season can be difficult.

You can make advance car ferry reservations by phone or on the Steamship Authority website (below):

* By Phone: (508) 477-8600
* Book Online: Steamship Authority Online Reservations

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