Viator Rating : 5 (3161 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 6.3/10 (Solid Experience)
Boston
Martha's Vineyard Day Trip from Boston
720
Overview
Discover the magic of Martha's Vineyard on a day trip from Boston! This tour offers a relaxing and easy way to see the island. Travel in comfort on an air-conditioned mini-coach, and enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Cape Cod across Nantucket Sound to either Oak Bluffs or Vineyard Haven, depending on the travel date.
Get ready to explore! Once on Martha's Vineyard, there are options for everyone. Explore the island on your own to visit the famous Gingerbread Cottages in Oak Bluffs, ride the Flying Horses Carousel, or explore the island's unique towns. You can also choose the narrated island bus tour to visit all six towns and the breathtaking Gay Head Cliffs (Aquinnah Cliffs). The tour drives through downtown Falmouth and along the Cape Cod Canal.
This Boston to Martha's Vineyard Day-Trip Excursion includes round-trip transportation on a comfortable mini-coach, a ferry ride, complimentary water, snacks, and island guidebooks. The island tour upgrade also includes a stop in Edgartown. This tour excludes gratuities and lunch. With hotel pick-up and drop-off at select Boston hotels, this is an effortless way to experience Martha's Vineyard. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Guide Quality (8 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (8 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Safety (7 - Cautious) : Mostly okay but required alertness
Upsell Risk (5 - Optional) : Upsells exist but avoidable
Logistics (7 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (5 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Instagram Factor (6 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Highlights
Easy Round-Trip from Boston: Relax with round-trip travel from Boston to Martha's Vineyard.
Scenic Ferry Ride: Enjoy a beautiful ferry ride from Cape Cod to the island.
Explore Martha's Vineyard: Discover the island's charming towns and famous sites.
Island Tour Option: Upgrade to a guided tour of all six island towns.
Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned mini-coach.
Snacks and Guidebooks Included: Enjoy complimentary snacks, water, and guidebooks.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the ease and convenience of the tour.
-
The guides are knowledgeable and friendly.
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The transportation was comfortable and well-organized.
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Many enjoyed the island tour upgrade, finding it informative.
Some found the time on the island too short.
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A few mentioned issues with the ferry schedule.
The Journey
Downtown Boston
Begin your adventure with a narrated tour through Downtown Boston, a city steeped in American history. Witness iconic landmarks like Boston Common, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and the historic Freedom Trail. Learn about the pivotal events that shaped the nation, from the Boston Tea Party to Paul Revere's ride, as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling metropolis.
Cape Cod Canal
Experience the engineering marvel that is the Cape Cod Canal, the widest sea-level canal in the world. Enjoy breathtaking views as you traverse this vital waterway, connecting Cape Cod Bay and Buzzards Bay. Observe the constant flow of maritime traffic, from recreational boats to massive cargo ships, against the backdrop of the scenic Cape Cod landscape.
Falmouth, Cape Cod
Travel through the charming town of Falmouth, a quintessential Cape Cod destination brimming with New England charm. Admire the historic architecture, browse the quaint shops, and soak in the serene coastal atmosphere. With its beautiful beaches and rich maritime history, Falmouth offers a delightful glimpse into the heart of Cape Cod.
Island Queen Ferry & Falmouth Harbor
Embark on the Island Queen Ferry from picturesque Falmouth Harbor for a pleasurable 35-minute sail to Martha's Vineyard. Capture stunning views of the harbor as you depart, then relax and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze as you cruise across the sparkling waters. This scenic ferry ride provides a perfect introduction to the beauty and tranquility of Martha's Vineyard.
Nantucket Sound
Savor the scenic beauty of Nantucket Sound as you sail towards Martha's Vineyard. Breathe in the fresh sea air and admire the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of this iconic waterway, a vital part of the New England maritime experience.
Oak Bluffs
Arrive in the vibrant town of Oak Bluffs on Martha's Vineyard, known for its lively atmosphere and unique attractions. Explore the colorful harborfront, lined with shops and restaurants, and immerse yourself in the town's rich history and culture. Whether you choose a guided tour or independent exploration, Oak Bluffs promises a memorable experience.
Gingerbread Cottages, Oak Bluffs
Marvel at the enchanting Gingerbread Cottages of Oak Bluffs, a must-see highlight of Martha's Vineyard. Wander through this whimsical neighborhood of over 300 brightly colored Victorian cottages, each uniquely decorated with intricate gingerbread trim. Capture stunning photographs and experience the fairytale charm of this architectural gem.
Flying Horses Carousel
Step back in time at the Flying Horses Carousel in Oak Bluffs, the oldest continuously operating carousel in the United States since 1884. Experience the thrill of catching the brass ring and enjoy a nostalgic ride on this beloved historic landmark, a cherished symbol of Martha's Vineyard's rich heritage.
Martha's Vineyard Towns
Discover the unique charm of Martha's Vineyard's diverse towns, each offering its own distinct character and attractions. From the upscale boutiques of Edgartown to the artistic vibe of Vineyard Haven, explore the island's hidden gems and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture. Whether on a guided tour or independent adventure, each town promises a memorable experience.
Gay Head Cliffs (Aquinnah Cliffs)
Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Gay Head Cliffs (also known as Aquinnah Cliffs), a geological wonder on Martha's Vineyard. Admire the vibrant layers of colored clay, sculpted by centuries of erosion, and capture panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Learn about the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic landmark, a testament to the power and beauty of nature.
Steamship Authority Ferry Terminal
Experience the convenience of the Steamship Authority Ferry Terminal, a seasonal gateway to Martha's Vineyard, typically used during early spring and late October. This ferry service offers a reliable and comfortable passage to the island, providing stunning views of the coastline and the open ocean.
Steamship Authority Ferry Service
Utilize the Steamship Authority Ferry Service, often used during shoulder seasons such as April/May and late October, for your day trip to Martha's Vineyard. Enjoy a smooth and scenic journey across the water, taking in the stunning views and anticipating the adventures that await on the island. This ferry service provides a comfortable and efficient way to experience the beauty of Martha's Vineyard.
Know Before You Go
This Martha's Vineyard Day Trip includes round-trip transportation on an air-conditioned mini-coach and a scenic ferry cruise. Complimentary water, snacks, and island guidebooks are provided. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included at select Boston hotels. The tour offers 5.5 to 6 hours on the island. An optional 3-hour narrated island bus tour is available for an additional fee. Gratuities and lunch are not included. Please note the ferry destination (Oak Bluffs or Vineyard Haven) depends on the travel date.
Hot Tip
Many visitors recommend upgrading to the narrated island tour to see all six towns and learn more about Martha's Vineyard's history and culture. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the towns, and bring a light jacket as it can get breezy on the ferry and near the water.
Review Summary
People usually say this tour offers excellent value and convenience for a Martha's Vineyard day trip, with travelers praising the professional guides, comfortable air-conditioned transportation, and the ease of hotel pick-up service. Reviewers consistently highlight the beautiful ferry experience, charming Gingerbread Cottages, and ample free time to explore the island. The complimentary snacks and island perks are frequently mentioned as pleasant bonuses, and many appreciate that the tour has been Boston's #1 day trip service since 2011, suggesting reliability. However, some note that the early 6:15 AM start time can be challenging, and a few visitors wished for more structured activities or longer time on the island for those not choosing the optional guided tour upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
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