If you’ve booked your stay at Bad Kitty Martha’s Vineyard—first of all, lucky you—and now you’re wondering: how the heck do I actually get to the island? Don’t worry. Getting to Martha’s Vineyard is easier than it seems, but it does require a little planning—especially during peak season.
Whether you’re arriving by plane, ferry, or a combination of both, this guide will help you choose the best route, prepare for your journey, and get to Edgartown, where Bad Kitty awaits your arrival.
Driving to the Ferry: Mainland Ports & Parking Options
If you're not flying directly to the island, your journey starts with getting to one of the ferry terminals in Massachusetts. Most travelers drive in from Boston, New York, or other parts of New England.
Here are the main ferry ports:
Woods Hole (Steamship Authority) – Most Popular
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Car + passenger ferry
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Year-round service
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Direct to Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs
Pro Tip: If you’re bringing a vehicle, reserve months in advance on the Steamship Authority website. Summer reservations go fast.
Hyannis (Hy-Line Cruises)
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Passenger-only, seasonal
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Fast and scenic
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Arrives in Oak Bluffs
Falmouth (Island Queen)
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Passenger-only, seasonal (May–October)
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Budget-friendly option
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Arrives in Oak Bluffs
New Bedford, Rhode Island, NYC (SeaStreak)
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High-speed ferry (no cars)
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Great option from the city
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Seasonal service
Parking:
Most ports offer long-term parking and shuttle services to the terminal. If you're not taking your car, reserve parking online when possible to save time.
Choosing the Best Ferry for Your Stay
Not all ferries go to every Vineyard port. Knowing where your rental is helps narrow down your options.
Bad Kitty is in Edgartown, which doesn’t have a ferry terminal, so you’ll arrive via:
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Vineyard Haven (year-round)
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Oak Bluffs (seasonal)
Both are within a 15–25 minute drive or ride from Edgartown.
Quick Ferry Comparison:
| Ferry Line | Port of Departure | Car Allowed | Port of Arrival | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steamship Authority | Woods Hole | ✅ Yes | Vineyard Haven / Oak Bluffs | Year-round |
| Hy-Line Cruises | Hyannis | ❌ No | Oak Bluffs | Seasonal |
| Island Queen | Falmouth | ❌ No | Oak Bluffs | Seasonal |
| SeaStreak | New Bedford / NYC | ❌ No | Oak Bluffs | Seasonal |
Flying to Martha’s Vineyard
Prefer to skip the boats? You can fly directly to Martha’s Vineyard Airport (MVY).
Direct Flights Available From:
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Boston – Cape Air, JetBlue
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New York – JFK & LaGuardia
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Washington D.C., Charlotte, and more – Seasonal airlines
Flying can be a great option for:
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Short trips
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Avoiding ferry stress
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Traveling without a car
✈️ MVY Airport to Edgartown: Only about 15 minutes by taxi or rental car.
On-Island Transportation Options
Once you arrive on the island, you’ll need to get around. Whether you’re planning to explore or just head straight to Bad Kitty, here are your options:
Car Rentals
Available at MVY and ferry ports. Book early during summer months.
Bike Rentals
A fun, eco-friendly way to see the island—especially scenic routes to South Beach, Katama, and through Edgartown.
VTA Public Bus System
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Affordable ($2 per ride or day passes)
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Routes to all major towns
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Great for travelers without a car
Taxis & Ride Shares
Available at ferry terminals and the airport, but can be limited at night or during peak demand. Pre-book when possible.
Pre-Arrival Checklist & Travel Tips
Here’s what to do before you hop on the ferry or catch your flight:
✅ Reserve Ferry Tickets Early (especially with a car)
✅ Download Ferry & Transit Apps for real-time updates
✅ Check Your Port of Arrival – Vineyard Haven vs Oak Bluffs
✅ Pack Layers – Island weather can shift quickly
✅ Bring Snacks & Water – Some terminals have limited options
✅ Charge Your Devices – Not all ferries have outlets
Getting from the Ferry or Airport to Bad Kitty
Distance from Major Arrival Points to Bad Kitty:
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🚢 Oak Bluffs → Bad Kitty: ~20 minutes
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🚢 Vineyard Haven → Bad Kitty: ~25 minutes
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✈️ MVY Airport → Bad Kitty: ~15 minutes
Taxis and ride shares are usually waiting at each location, but if you’re arriving late, consider pre-booking a car or shuttle.
You’ve Made It!
Once you're on the ferry, head to the top deck or sit by a window, breathe in that salty air, and get ready for island time.
Your Bad Kitty getaway in Edgartown is almost here.
Need Help Planning Your Arrival?
We’ve helped guests navigate ferry schedules, parking logistics, and flight options. If you need help choosing the best route for your travel dates, don’t hesitate to reach out to us—we’re happy to assist!
FAQ: Getting to Martha’s Vineyard
What’s the best way to get to Martha’s Vineyard?
It depends on where you're coming from. Most people drive to Woods Hole and take the Steamship ferry, but flying to MVY is great if you're coming from NYC or Boston.
Can I bring my car to the island?
Yes, but only on Steamship Authority ferries—and car spots sell out FAST. Reserve early.
Is there Uber or Lyft on Martha’s Vineyard?
Yes, but availability can be limited. Pre-book or use the local taxi services if you're traveling at night or with luggage.
What’s the cheapest way to get to Martha’s Vineyard?
Taking the Island Queen from Falmouth (passenger-only) is one of the most affordable options during summer.
What’s the closest ferry port to Edgartown?
Oak Bluffs is slightly closer than Vineyard Haven, but both are easy drives to Bad Kitty.
