Oak Bluffs

Oak Bluffs Harbor Ferry Terminal

Overview

Oak Bluffs serves as Martha's Vineyard's seasonal ferry hub, with service from Woods Hole (Steamship Authority), Falmouth (Island Queen), and Hyannis (Hy-Line). The harbor is a man-made breakwater-protected basin on the island's eastern shore. Famous for its Victorian gingerbread cottages and lively summer scene, Oak Bluffs sees heavy ferry traffic from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Seasonal Service

Oak Bluffs ferry service operates seasonally, typically May through October. During this period, it provides an alternative to Vineyard Haven for arriving passengers, with the added convenience of service from multiple mainland ports. In the off-season, travelers must use Vineyard Haven via Woods Hole.

How Weather Affects Departures Here

Oak Bluffs harbor is protected by a man-made breakwater, which provides good shelter from north and west winds. This protection means the harbor itself is often calmer than open water. East and southeast winds present the greatest challenges because they blow more directly into the harbor entrance. Under these conditions, swells can enter the harbor basin, affecting docking operations. When easterly conditions are significant, ferries scheduled for Oak Bluffs may divert to Vineyard Haven instead, where the island provides more shelter from that direction. The harbor's relatively shallow approach can also create choppy conditions that affect vessel handling, particularly for the larger car ferries. Fog occasionally affects the Oak Bluffs area, as with other island ports, though this is more common in spring and early summer.

Common Reasons Sailings Change

East and southeast winds pushing swells into the harbor entrance
Choppy conditions in the relatively shallow approach
Fog affecting visibility during certain weather patterns
Diversions from Vineyard Haven during northeast conditions

What Travelers Should Know

Oak Bluffs offers convenient access to the island's summer attractions and serves as an alternative arrival point to Vineyard Haven. During the season, you may have multiple ferry options from different mainland ports. Be aware that easterly weather can affect Oak Bluffs more than Vineyard Haven, so your scheduled port may change based on conditions. Check your specific operator for current status.

Ferry Connections

Woods Hole → Oak Bluffs
Steamship Authority
Seasonal (May–Oct)
Check Status
Falmouth → Oak Bluffs
Island Queen
Seasonal (late May–mid Oct)
Check Status
Hyannis → Oak Bluffs
Hy-Line Cruises
Seasonal (May–Oct)
Check Status

Resources

Steamship Authority

Vehicle ferry schedules and reservations

Hy-Line Cruises

Passenger ferry from Hyannis

Island Queen Ferry

Passenger ferry from Falmouth

Town of Oak Bluffs

Local government and visitor information

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get to Oak Bluffs year-round?

No, ferry service to Oak Bluffs is seasonal, typically May through October. For off-season travel to Martha's Vineyard, use the Steamship Authority from Woods Hole to Vineyard Haven.

Which ferry should I take to Oak Bluffs?

You have three options during the season: Steamship Authority from Woods Hole (vehicle ferry), Island Queen from Falmouth (passengers only), and Hy-Line from Hyannis (passengers only). Choose based on your departure location and whether you need a vehicle.

What if weather diverts my ferry to Vineyard Haven?

Both towns are on Martha's Vineyard and connected by local transportation. A diversion adds some travel time but still gets you to the island. Check local bus schedules or taxi options.

Is Oak Bluffs close to other Vineyard towns?

Yes, Oak Bluffs is adjacent to Vineyard Haven and connected to other island towns by bus and road. The ferry diversion between ports typically adds minimal impact to your overall trip.

This page provides general information about ferry service at Oak Bluffs. Always verify current schedules and service status directly with ferry operators before traveling.