How to Get to Martha’s Vineyard from New York City [2025-2026 Guide]
Reach Martha’s Vineyard from NYC by Amtrak train and ferry (6 hrs), bus and ferry (6.5 hrs), car and ferry (5–6 hrs), or direct Cape Air flight (1.5 hrs).
✈️ By Plane: The Fastest Way to Martha’s Vineyard
The quickest option is to fly from New York City airports (JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark) to Martha’s Vineyard Airport (MVY).
- Airlines: Cape Air, JetBlue, and Delta (seasonal).
- Flight Time: Around 1.5 hours nonstop.
- Cost: $150–$350 depending on season.
- Convenience: Best for summer visitors who want to maximize time on the island.
👉 This is the fastest and most direct way to get from NYC to Martha’s Vineyard.
🚆 By Train + Ferry: Amtrak to Martha’s Vineyard
A comfortable alternative is to combine train travel with a ferry.
- Step 1: Take Amtrak Northeast Regional from NYC Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall) to Providence, RI or Boston South Station.
- Step 2: Transfer by bus or car to Woods Hole, MA.
- Step 3: Take the Steamship Authority ferry from Woods Hole to Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs.
- Total Travel Time: Around 6–7 hours.
- Cost: Train (
$50–$120) + Ferry ($9 passenger, $90+ for cars).
👉 This option is ideal if you want a relaxed, scenic journey without driving.
🚌 By Bus + Ferry: Affordable Travel to Martha’s Vineyard
Another budget-friendly route is taking a bus from NYC to Massachusetts.
- Bus Operators: Peter Pan Bus and Greyhound.
- Step 1: Take a bus from NYC to Falmouth, MA or Woods Hole.
- Step 2: Board the Steamship Authority ferry to Martha’s Vineyard.
- Travel Time: Around 6.5–7.5 hours.
- Cost: Bus ($40–$70) + Ferry (~$9).
👉 A good choice for budget travelers and students.
🚗 By Car + Ferry: Driving to Martha’s Vineyard
Driving from New York to Woods Hole and then taking the ferry is very popular.
- Distance: About 250 miles (400 km).
- Driving Time: 5–6 hours (longer on summer weekends).
- Ferry Crossing: 45 minutes from Woods Hole to Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs.
- Cost: Gas/tolls (
$40–$60) + Ferry passenger ($9) or car transport ($90+).
👉 Best for those who want a car on the island for exploring freely.
⛴️ Ferry Operators to Martha’s Vineyard
The main operator is the Steamship Authority, running year-round ferries from Woods Hole to Vineyard Haven and Oak Bluffs.
- Duration: 45 minutes.
- Passenger Tickets: ~$9.
- Car Transport: ~$90+ (reservation required months in advance for summer).
👉 Without a car, you can also use fast passenger-only ferries from New Bedford, Hyannis, or Rhode Island.
🚖 Summary of Travel Options
| Option | Travel Time | Cost (One Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flight (JFK/LGA/EWR → MVY) | 1.5 hrs | $150–$350 | Fastest, easiest |
| 🚆 Train + Ferry | 6–7 hrs | $60–$130 | Scenic, car-free |
| 🚌 Bus + Ferry | 6.5–7.5 hrs | $50–$80 | Budget option |
| 🚗 Car + Ferry | 6–7 hrs | $50–$150+ | Flexibility, car on island |
✅ Final Tips for Visiting Martha’s Vineyard
- Book early: Summer ferries and flights sell out quickly.
- Without a car: The island has taxis, shuttles, and bike rentals.
- Best time to go: Late May–September for warm weather and full ferry schedules.
❓ FAQs About Getting to Martha’s Vineyard from NYC
Q1: What is the fastest way to get to Martha’s Vineyard from NYC?
A direct flight to Martha’s Vineyard Airport (MVY) is the fastest at around 1.5 hours.
Q2: What is the cheapest way to get to Martha’s Vineyard?
The bus + ferry option is usually the cheapest, costing around $50–$80 total.
Q3: Do I need a car on Martha’s Vineyard?
Not necessarily. The island has good public buses, taxis, and bike rentals, but a car helps for longer stays.
Q4: Can I take Amtrak directly to Martha’s Vineyard?
No direct train exists. You must take Amtrak to Providence or Boston, then transfer to a bus/ferry.
Q5: How long does it take to drive from NYC to Martha’s Vineyard?
It takes about 5–6 hours by car to Woods Hole, plus a 45-minute ferry ride.