economie

I spent $79 on a round-trip ferry to Martha’s Vineyard. The ocean views and full-service bar weren’t even the best parts.

July 30, 20240
I went to the New Bedford terminal to board my ferry to Martha’s Vineyard.

Andrea McHugh

The day before my departure, I purchased a $79 ferry ticket from Seastreak. Passengers can also purchase walk-up tickets, but the ferry can sell out, so I recommend buying them in advance.

When I arrived, I headed inside the terminal. 
Several passengers carrying bags and luggage efficiently boarded the ferry.

Andrea McHugh

Like most folks, I lined up under the covered waiting area on the pier. When I boarded the ferry, a staff member scanned my digital ticket.

I chose a seat near the snack bar.
I took advantage of the ferry’s snack bar.

Andrea McHugh

Next, I headed to the snack bar, where I saw chips, pastries, snack bars, nuts, and other prepackaged goodies. I got a coffee but noticed some passengers ordering bloody marys and mimosas at a full-service cash bar.

Travelers can also bring their own food aboard, so I saw a handful of people with soft coolers.

The restrooms were clean and spacious, and moving around the boat was easy if I wanted to get fresh air outside — though there were whipping winds when we were cruising.

The ride was smoother and quicker than I remembered.
The process to disembark took five minutes.

Andrea McHugh

Docking at the Seastreak ferry terminal at Oak Bluffs was smooth and orderly. An announcement prompted passengers to prepare to disembark, and the whole process took only five minutes.

Taking the ferry was super easy, and I’ll definitely do it again.
Taking the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard was a breeze.

Andrea McHugh

Taking the Seastreak ferry was the quickest, cheapest option for me to get to Martha’s Vineyard. Its flexible schedule, affordable fares, and no-hassle ticketing made my experience stress-free. 

The $79 trip was well worth the breezy experience, and it inspired me to return on a same-day trip. It was well worth the price to feel a world away, even if it was just a few miles from mainland Massachusetts.