Martha's Vineyard, MA Cruise Port Guide
Welcome to the idyllic shores of Martha's Vineyard, a quintessential New England island located just south of Cape Cod. Known for its pristine beaches, historic whaling captains' homes, and charming gingerbread cottages, this destination attracts smaller luxury vessels and coastal cruisers from lines like American Cruise Lines and Windstar Cruises. Passengers are drawn to the island's relaxed atmosphere, distinct towns, and scenic beauty, making it a favorite summer retreat for travelers seeking culture and coastline.
In This Guide
- Shore Excursions & Tours
- Key Martha's Vineyard Port Information
- • Top Attractions & Excursions
- • Nearby Cities & Attractions
- • Port Location
- • Local Currency
- • Safety Considerations
- • Weather & Climate
- • Getting Around
- • Shopping
- Visiting Martha's Vineyard Cruise Deals
- Upcoming Cruises to Martha's Vineyard Cruise Deals
- Ships in Port Schedule
- Other Cruise Ports in MA
- Monthly Pricing
Shore Excursions & Tours
Marthas Vineyard Luxury Tour (2hrs)
This private tour is designed specifically for small groups of up to five people seeking a unique and personalized experience. Enjoy a narrated drive along the scenic coast where you will learn about local history, hear stories of famous residents, and stop for photos. We will visit the three "down-island" towns, making this the perfect option for day-trippers with limited time.
Self Guided Walking Tour of Oak Bluffs Marthas Vineyard
Unearth the charm of Oak Bluffs on this self-guided walking tour that highlights the town's Victorian architecture and African American heritage. You will wander among whimsical gingerbread cottages and enjoy stunning harbor views while learning how the area evolved from a Methodist camp meeting site to a celebrated resort. This exploration is perfect for history buffs or anyone wishing to discover local stories and scenic ocean views at their own pace.
#1 Best Martha's Vineyard Private Tours
This comprehensive tour introduces the history of all six unique towns, from the Victorian seaside charm of Oak Bluffs to the stately Greek Revival homes of Edgartown. You will travel through the historic farming towns of West Tisbury and Chilmark before making stops at the idyllic fishing village of Menemsha and the colorful clay cliffs of Aquinnah. Along the way, you can stretch your legs at impressive lighthouses and even cross the bridge used in the filming of the movie Jaws.
Private, Guided Sightseeing Tour of Marthas Vineyard Island(3hrs)
Designed specifically for small groups of up to five people, this private tour offers a truly unique way to experience the beautiful island. Relax on a narrated drive along the scenic coast where you will stop for photos, hear about famous residents, and learn local history while passing through all six towns. This is the perfect option for travelers with limited time who want to see the entire island in a single day.
Martha’s Vineyard Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour
Discover one of the USA's greatest vacation spots with this GPS-guided driving tour that includes walking portions and digs deep into the island's surprising history. You will learn about the Wampanoag people, the origin of the famous gingerbread houses, and a lost language invented by residents. Simply download the Audio Tour Guide App by Action to enjoy this lifetime-access experience offline and at your own convenience.
#1 Best 3hr Martha's Vineyard shared Island Tour from Oak Bluffs
Experience our famous three-hour full island tour for a budget-friendly rate, led by native islanders and experienced guides. You will travel through all six unique towns in comfortable air-conditioned vans, with a special stop to view the beautiful Cliffs of Aquinnah. This narrated journey introduces you to the history of the 100-square-mile island, covering highlights like Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and Menemsha.
Best of Martha's Vineyard 3 hour Full-Island Tour
Experience all six towns on Martha's Vineyard in just three hours with stops to explore the beautiful seaport of Menemsha and the cliffs in Aquinnah. You will travel in comfortable, air-conditioned Ford Transit vans featuring large windows for the best views. Throughout the journey, five-star local guides will provide engaging narration covering history, culture, celebrity homes, and Jaws filming locations.
All New Shared Jaws tour Budget Friendly
Immerse yourself in film history with a Jaws tour that gives you access to many of the movie's iconic locations, including the famous bridge. You will hear unpublished stories about the actors and the chaotic production, such as how a planned 55-day shoot ballooned into 159 days. Along the way, you can stop for photos and learn fascinating facts, like how local extras were paid just $64 to scream during the shark attack scenes.
4 hours Hop-on Hop-off Jawsome Jaws Tour
Embark on a thrilling journey for Jaws fans that visits filming locations while a screen at the front of the bus plays clips from the movie. A character from the film leads the tour, sharing behind-the-scenes secrets, and a digital sound system pumps the theme music to get your heart pounding. You can even participate in trivia contests for huge prizes and get autographs from your guide during this immersive experience.
Martha Vineyard Bus Tour
This unique All Island Bus Tour features four opportunities to hop off and explore, including time to shop, dine, and sightsee. A screen at the front of the bus displays images of the past, allowing you to compare historical views with the beautiful vistas and quaint cottages you see today. You will be fully engaged by fascinating stories and amenities that highlight the amazing clay cliffs and the island's rich history.
Edgartown Martha’s Vineyard Self-Guided (GPS) Audio Walking Tour
Explore the historic town of Edgartown at your own pace with this professionally narrated walking tour. You will discover iconic sights and secret gems, including the Old Whaling Church, Underground Railroad locations, and the famous lighthouse. As you walk, listen to captivating stories about settlers, ghosts, the Kennedy family, and the filming locations of Jaws.
Martha’s Vineyard Venture Scavenger Hunt
Embark on a unique, immersive adventure that functions as equal parts tour, creative challenge, and detective hunt. Unlike other companies, you will have a remote, live host available through your phone to assist and encourage you as you discover hidden gems off the beaten trail. You can compete for a spot on the international leaderboard by interpreting fun art, history, and culture clues in this one-of-a-kind experience.
Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard Audio Tour
Discover how Oak Bluffs evolved from a humble religious camp into a summer destination for presidents and celebrities on this self-paced audio tour. The GPS-guided route features automatic audio tracks that lead you past the famed gingerbread cottages and through the development of Ocean Park and Circuit Avenue. You will learn about the conflict between tourism and the original Methodist campers while finding great places to grab lunch or a drink.
Martha's Vineyard Private 4 hour Tour
Enjoy a customized, private four-hour tour of the full island that allows you to add stops for lunch, shopping, or beach photos. You can choose to visit Chappaquiddick, explore art galleries, or experience a breathtaking sunset at Menemsha or the Cliffs of Aquinnah. This flexible experience lets you tailor the itinerary to your specific interests, whether that involves shopping in Edgartown or visiting a local farm stand.
Discovering Oak Bluffs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Discover how a small religious summer camp transformed into a popular destination on this walking tour through the heart of Oak Bluffs. Starting in Ocean Park, you will follow the coast to Inkwell Beach and visit historic landmarks like the Tabernacle and the Flying Horses Carousel. Along the way, you will explore the cottage museum and learn why this island paradise remains so alluring to everyone from the rich and famous to day-trippers.
Key Martha's Vineyard Port Information
Top Attractions & Excursions
A top attraction for visitors is the Oak Bluffs Campground, where hundreds of colorful, Victorian-style gingerbread cottages surround the open-air Tabernacle. Nature enthusiasts often head to the Aquinnah Cliffs (formerly Gay Head Cliffs) on the western tip of the island to see the dramatic clay formations and historic lighthouse, a trip that takes about 45 minutes by bus. For a mix of history and scenery, the Edgartown Lighthouse and the surrounding majestic white Greek Revival houses in Edgartown are must-see landmarks. Fans of cinema frequently visit the Jaws Bridge on Joseph Sylvia State Beach, a famous filming location from the classic movie.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Nearby Cities & Attractions
While staying on the island is the norm, visitors often travel between the distinct towns which act as nearby destinations; for instance, the elegant town of Edgartown is just a short 15-minute drive or bus ride from Oak Bluffs. Another popular excursion is to the fishing village of Menemsha, known for its rustic charm and fresh seafood markets, located on the island's western edge. Visitors looking for seclusion may take the tiny 'Chappy Ferry' from Edgartown to Chappaquiddick Island to explore the tranquil Mytoi Garden and pristine barrier beaches.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Port Location
Cruise ships generally anchor offshore and tender passengers directly into the harbor of Oak Bluffs or occasionally Vineyard Haven. In Oak Bluffs, the tender pier lands you right in the center of town, steps away from Ocean Park, the famous Flying Horses Carousel, and bustling streets lined with shops and restaurants. No shuttle is needed to reach the main attractions of the town where you land, as the areas are highly walkable and immediate amenities are plentiful.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Local Currency
The local currency is the United States Dollar (USD). International travelers will find ATMs readily available in the main towns of Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and Vineyard Haven. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants, boutiques, and attractions, though carrying a small amount of cash is recommended for small purchases, tips, or local shuttle buses.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Safety Considerations
Martha's Vineyard is considered a very safe destination for tourists with low crime rates. The primary safety concern is often road safety; if renting a bicycle or moped, be vigilant on narrow, winding roads that may have sand patches. Visitors exploring nature trails or tall grass should also be aware of ticks, which can carry Lyme disease, and use repellent or cover up when hiking.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Weather & Climate
During the cruise season, which runs from late spring through early autumn, the weather is generally mild and pleasant. Summer temperatures typically range from the high 60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, often accompanied by humidity, while spring and fall can be crisp and breezy. Passengers should pack layers, including a light sweater or windbreaker for cool evenings or boat rides, and comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Getting Around
The island features an excellent public bus system run by the Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA), which offers affordable day passes and connects all major towns and beaches. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available, though wait times can vary during peak summer months. Many cruise passengers choose bicycle rentals as a primary mode of transport to enjoy the scenic, flat coastal roads at a leisurely pace.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Shopping
Shopping is a major pastime here, with Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs and Main Street in Edgartown offering the best concentration of stores. Visitors can find unique souvenirs such as wampum jewelry, artwork from local galleries, and the iconic 'Black Dog' apparel. Prices are generally fixed and on the higher end due to the island location, and there are no duty-free shops, but the quality of local goods is excellent.
Last updated on February 6, 2026
Visiting Martha's Vineyard Cruise Deals
Upcoming Cruises to Martha's Vineyard Cruise Deals
Ships in Port Schedule
Showing 4 ships in the area
No ships scheduled in port today.
Other Cruise Ports in MA
Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Martha's Vineyard
On average cruises that visit Martha's Vineyard are moderately expensive compared to other itineraries. Prices are roughly equal throughout the year. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Martha's Vineyard.