If you’re dreaming of visiting Martha’s Vineyard and want to get a real taste of the island’s charm, you might have come across the All Island Tour by HomeGrown Tours. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and comprehensive itinerary paint a picture of a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing, history, and local stories.
What stands out about this tour are the knowledgeable guides, the opportunity to step off the bus at multiple stops, and the chance to see some of the island’s most iconic sights—all wrapped into a three-hour package. A small caveat? The price is on the higher side compared to simpler sightseeing options, but the extra amenities and expert narration tend to justify the cost.
This tour is best suited for visitors who want more than just a quick overview; those eager to learn, explore at their own pace, and enjoy authentic insights from locals. If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and visually stunning introduction to Martha’s Vineyard, this could very well be the tour for you.
Key Points
- Expert local guides with generations of island knowledge ensure a rich storytelling experience
- Multiple stops allow for exploration and photo opportunities, not just bus sightseeing
- Historical insights include native heritage, the Underground Railroad, and the island’s development
- Great views of rolling hills, ancient stone walls, and iconic vistas provide perfect photo moments
- Filming locations from JAWS attract film buffs, adding a fun pop culture element
- Wheelchair accessibility makes this tour inclusive for most visitors
What Makes the Martha’s Vineyard All Island Tour Special
This tour stands out because it combines engaging storytelling with visual highlights. As a visitor, you’ll travel in air-conditioned comfort on a bus driven by guides who are either third or fourth-generation locals. Their in-depth knowledge and personal anecdotes bring the island’s history and culture to life, creating a personalized experience that larger, less interactive tours often miss.
The tour is designed to offer four step-off stops, giving you the chance to explore, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere. This is a significant advantage over standard bus tours where passengers are often limited to window views and quick photo ops.
At just $70 per person, the tour offers notable value considering the amenities—like ferry pickup and drop-offs, a screen showing historical visuals, and the opportunity to ask questions directly to guides who know the island inside out.
Looking for more options in Martha S Vineyard? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Starting Point: Oak Bluffs
Your adventure begins in Oak Bluffs, once known as Cottage City. Here, you’ll learn about the Methodist Campgrounds, which have played a large role in shaping the island’s tourism industry since 1835. Reviewers mention guides like Deedee and Dede, who are praised for their friendliness and wealth of knowledge. One reviewer called Deedee “amazing,” appreciating her personal stories and enthusiasm about the island’s history.
Vineyard Haven – The Oldest Port
Next, you’ll pass through Vineyard Haven (Tisbury), the island’s oldest port, 200 years in operation. Guides share tales of hardships such as the devastating fire of 1888 and the ransack by General Grey in 1778. Reviewers have appreciated guides like Stan, who is recognized for his familiarity with the island and engaging storytelling, sharing stories from his youth.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Cliffs and Vistas
One highlight is the clay cliffs, which are said to hold treasures from long ago, offering stunning scenery and a chance for memorable photos. The views include rolling hills, ancient stone walls, and sweeping vistas of the south shore and Elizabeth Islands. Reviewers note that these landscapes are especially striking and worth taking the time to appreciate.
The African American Heritage and Native Roots
An important part of the narrative is the African American heritage brought to the island by escaped slaves and the history of the native Wampanoag people. Guides educate about Martha’s Vineyard’s role in the Underground Railroad and the island’s indigenous peoples—topics that many travelers find both enlightening and meaningful.
JAWS Filming Locations
For film buffs, the tour highlights several sites where JAWS was filmed. As the 50th anniversary of the movie approaches, this element has been given increased attention. Clips from the film are shown on a screen, enhancing the experience and connecting visitors with pop culture history.
Edgartown and Whaling Heritage
The tour concludes with a visit to Edgartown, famous for its mansions built by whaling captains. Reviewers love the opportunity to see these historic homes, which add a touch of elegance and nostalgia. The guides share stories of the island’s whaling past, bringing history to life.
Transportation & Practicalities
The tour begins at 1 Seaview Ave in Oak Bluffs, with pickup arranged via ferry. The bus ride is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort even on warm days. The group size is small enough (about 12 passengers), providing an intimate atmosphere with plenty of interaction with guides.
One of the most appreciated aspects is the ability to step off at four key locations. This makes the experience more interactive—giving you time to explore, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery. The use of a screen to show what sites looked like in the 1800s adds context and helps you visualize the historical landscape.
For those concerned about mobility, it’s noteworthy that this is the only wheelchair-accessible tour on Martha’s Vineyard, making it inclusive for a broader range of travelers.
Timing & Cancellations
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. It’s important to note that if the ferry is diverted to Vineyard Haven, the tour will be delayed until 11 am, and pickup in Vineyard Haven isn’t available.
Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now & pay later offers peace of mind for flexible planning.
The Value Proposition
While $70 might seem steep compared to simpler bus rides, the value is in the details—the knowledgeable guides, multiple stops, and the rich storytelling. Reviewers frequently mention guides like Stan and Deedee as highlights, praising their enthusiasm and local expertise.
The inclusion of ferry transfers, a visual presentation of historical images, and the opportunity to step off and explore in small groups make this a comprehensive experience. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a personalized, educational tour rather than just a quick drive-by.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
- History buffs interested in native heritage, the Underground Railroad, and maritime stories
- Visitors wanting a more interactive and immersive experience
- Those looking for authentic local insights from guides who grew up on the island
- Culture enthusiasts wanting to explore the African American heritage and Native roots of Martha’s Vineyard
- Film fans eager to see JAWS filming locations with added context from clips
- Travelers with mobility needs will appreciate the wheelchair accessibility
Conversely, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer only a brief overview, you might find this tour slightly pricier than others, and some may wish for more time at specific locations.
Final Thoughts
This All Island Tour by HomeGrown Tours offers a well-rounded look at Martha’s Vineyard—combining scenic vistas, historical storytelling, and local insights. The small-group format, the inclusion of multiple stops, and the passionate guides set it apart from more generic sightseeing options.
It’s ideal for those who want to connect more deeply with the island’s culture and history without sacrificing comfort or convenience. If you value personable guides, authentic stories, and the flexibility to explore, this tour hits the mark.
While it caters to those eager for a thorough and engaging introduction, it might be less suited for travelers on a tight budget or those with mobility restrictions (except for the wheelchair accessibility). Overall, it’s a fantastic way to get to know Martha’s Vineyard beyond just a postcard image—and to do so with local storytellers who truly care.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes ferry pickup and drop-off, plus an air-conditioned bus for the entire trip.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with start times depending on availability.
Can I explore stops at my own pace?
Absolutely. The tour offers 4 step-off stops where you can get off, explore, take photos, and soak in the scenery.
Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides like Deedee and Stan for their friendliness, local knowledge, and storytelling skills.
Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, this is the only wheelchair-accessible tour on Martha’s Vineyard, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.
What sites are included?
You’ll visit Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, Clay Cliffs, areas significant to African American heritage, JAWS filming sites, and Edgartown’s historic mansions.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and sunglasses are recommended; the tour provides a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
In the end, this tour is about more than just sightseeing—it’s about connecting with Martha’s Vineyard through the stories of those who know it best. Whether you’re a history lover, a film enthusiast, or simply want a meaningful island experience, this tour offers plenty of value and memorable moments.
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