The islands are reached by ferry, and the Steamship Authority is the main year-round operator. Its schedule page lists Woods Hole to Martha's Vineyard from 23 October 2026 to 5 January 2027, the Hyannis to Nantucket high-speed passenger ferry from 30 March 2026 to 5 January 2027, and the traditional Hyannis to Nantucket ferry from 11 September 2026 to 5 January 2027. That means all three services run in November. Woods Hole sits at the southwest corner of the Cape and the crossing to Vineyard Haven is roughly forty-five minutes; the traditional Nantucket boat from Hyannis takes a little over two hours, and the high-speed ferry cuts that to about an hour. Advance vehicle reservations are required on the Vineyard and traditional Nantucket ferries. Passengers without vehicles can usually buy tickets on the day for those two, while high-speed reservations are recommended. Other operators such as Hy-Line Cruises also sail, so compare timetables on the day you want to travel.
Off-season ferries are a pleasure. The decks are quiet, the harbors are calm and the islands slow down to a village pace, with many shops and restaurants on reduced hours. A day trip to Vineyard Haven or Nantucket Town is realistic if you choose a morning crossing and a late afternoon return, but remember that winter timetables have fewer sailings, so the last boat back leaves earlier than in summer. An overnight stay is much more relaxing, and the winter weekend deals at island inns are some of the best of the year.
If you are bringing a car, book well ahead. Vehicle space is limited, reservations are required, and you should arrive at the terminal at least forty-five minutes before departure. Most visitors do better as foot passengers in winter, using island buses, taxis and walking. Martha's Vineyard tickets are sold at the Vineyard Haven terminal year-round, while the Oak Bluffs ticket office is seasonal. The Woods Hole terminal has paid parking, and Hyannis has lots near the docks.
Good to know: schedules and terminals can change with weather and mechanical issues, so check the Steamship Authority status page on the day of travel. The Woods Hole to Oak Bluffs summer run is seasonal, while Vineyard Haven is the winter port. Keep an eye on timetables if you plan to combine a ferry with a connecting bus or an early flight.
What to expect
The experience
A scheduled passenger or vehicle ferry from Woods Hole to Vineyard Haven or from Hyannis to Nantucket, with winter timetables running to 5 January 2027.
Best time
A morning sailing on a calm, clear day gives the best chance of a comfortable crossing and a full day on the island.
How long
About 45 minutes from Woods Hole; roughly one hour on the high-speed Nantucket boat and a little over two hours on the traditional ferry.
Tips
Reserve vehicle space in advance, check the status page on the travel day, and note that winter timetables have fewer return sailings.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone planning a day or weekend on Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket in the off-season.
- Families
- The Vineyard crossing is short and easy for children; the traditional Nantucket boat has indoor seating and snacks.
- Couples
- A winter weekend on Nantucket or in Edgartown, with an early sailing and a quiet inn, is the classic escape.
- Pair with
- A Martha's Vineyard island tour, the Nantucket Whaling Museum or an overnight at Harbor View in Edgartown.
- Time needed
- Allow a full day for a round-trip, or a weekend for a relaxed visit.
Good questions
Do the ferries run in November?+
Yes. The Steamship Authority lists Woods Hole to Martha's Vineyard and both Hyannis to Nantucket services running through 5 January 2027. Check the schedule page for the exact departures on your date.
Do I need a reservation?+
Vehicle reservations are required on the Vineyard and traditional Nantucket ferries. Passengers without cars can buy tickets on the day for those, while high-speed reservations are recommended.
How long are the crossings?+
From Woods Hole to Vineyard Haven the crossing is about forty-five minutes. Hyannis to Nantucket takes about an hour on the high-speed ferry and a little over two hours on the traditional boat.
Can I do it as a day trip?+
Yes, with a morning sailing and an afternoon return, but winter timetables have fewer departures. Check the last boat back before you commit.
Where do I park?+
Woods Hole and Hyannis both have paid lots near the terminals. Parking fills up in busy periods, so arrive early or reserve ahead where possible.