Martha’s Vineyard: All Island Tour offers a captivating journey through the island’s rich history and stunning scenery. Guided by knowledgeable locals, the 3-hour excursion explores key areas, including Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, and Edgartown. Participants will discover significant historical sites, learn about the island’s cultural heritage, and witness the breathtaking vistas that have made Martha’s Vineyard a beloved destination. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour promises to unveil the hidden gems that make this island truly unique.
Key Points
- This 3-hour guided tour provides a rundown of Martha’s Vineyard, covering the island’s rich history, including American Sign Language and African American heritage.
- The tour is led by local 3rd and 4th generation islanders, offering an immersive experience with stops in Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, and Edgartown.
- Historical highlights include the Methodist Campgrounds, the whaling village, and significant filming locations from the movie "Jaws".
- Scenic viewpoints showcase the island’s iconic cliffs, beaches, historic villages, and picturesque lighthouses.
- The tour offers convenient ferry service, an air-conditioned vehicle, and is the only wheelchair-accessible option on Martha’s Vineyard.
Tour Overview
The Martha’s Vineyard: All Island Tour is a 3-hour guided excursion that provides visitors with a rundown of this picturesque island.
Priced from $70 per person, the tour is conducted in English and allows guests to explore Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, and Edgartown.
Guided by local island experts, the tour covers the island’s rich history, including the origins of American Sign Language, the African American heritage, and the indigenous peoples.
With a focus on historical sites and scenic vistas, the tour also highlights the filming locations of the iconic movie "Jaws".
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
Looking for more options in Martha S Vineyard? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Highlights of the Experience
Guided by local 3rd and 4th generation islanders, the Martha’s Vineyard tour offers an immersive experience that showcases the island’s rich heritage.
Stops include the charming towns of Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, and Edgartown, where visitors learn about the island’s diverse history. From the origins of American Sign Language to the African American heritage and the Underground Railroad, the tour provides fascinating insights.
Historical sites, such as the Methodist Campgrounds and the whaling village, bring the past to life. Scenic views of rolling hills, ancient stone walls, and the Elizabeth Islands complete the experience, along with a special focus on Jaws film locations.
Historical and Cultural Insights
As visitors explore Martha’s Vineyard, they explore the island’s rich tapestry of historical and cultural significance.
The tour guides share insights into the island’s role in the development of American Sign Language, the African American heritage and the Underground Railroad, and the missionary work of Thomas Mayhew among the indigenous peoples.
Guests learn about the island’s whaling history and visit historical sites like the Methodist Campgrounds and the old whaling village.
The tour also highlights the island’s connection to the film "Jaws," providing an immersive audio-visual experience.
Scenic Locations and Viewpoints
Stunning vistas of rolling hills, ancient stone walls, and the Elizabeth Islands grace the landscape as the tour navigates Martha’s Vineyard.
The scenic highlights include:
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Sweeping views of the island’s iconic cliffs and beaches from various lookout points.
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Charming historic villages, such as Edgartown, with their well-preserved 19th-century architecture and quaint, tree-lined streets.
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Serene ponds and lakes, surrounded by lush greenery and offering peaceful respites from the bustling coastal towns.
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The picturesque lighthouses, including the iconic East Chop Light, which provide dramatic backdrops and stunning ocean vistas.
Jaws Film Locations and Visuals
The tour’s special focus on Jaws film locations provides an enhanced audio-visual experience for visitors.
At key sites, guides share behind-the-scenes stories and play clips from the iconic movie. Guests can see the infamous Jaws house in Edgartown and visit the fishing dock where the characters embarked on their fateful voyage.
The immersive experience allows visitors to step into the world of Jaws, fostering a deeper appreciation for the film’s legacy and the island’s cinematic history.
This unique aspect of the tour sets it apart, offering a truly engaging and memorable experience.
Transportation and Accessibility
One key aspect of the Martha’s Vineyard: All Island Tour is the transportation and accessibility it offers. The tour provides ferry service for pickup and drop-off, ensuring convenience for visitors.
The air-conditioned vehicle is equipped with a screen for historical visuals, enhancing the overall experience. Notably, this is the only wheelchair accessible tour company on the island, making it inclusive for all.
The meeting point is located at 1 Seaview Ave, Oak Bluffs, MA, near the Oak Bluffs Steamship Authority ticket office, providing a centralized and easily accessible starting point.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Customers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Martha’s Vineyard: All Island Tour, with an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars based on 126 reviews. Reviewers particularly praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, whose engaging storytelling enhanced the experience. The transportation, which includes an air-conditioned vehicle with a screen for historical visuals, also received high marks, with a 4.3/5 rating. The tour’s value for money was also well-received, earning a 4.1/5 rating.
| Metric | Rating |
| — | — |
| Overall | 4.1/5 |
| Guide | 4.2/5 |
| Transportation | 4.3/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.1/5 |
| Highlighted Feedback | Guides are knowledgeable and friendly. Engaging storytelling enhances the experience. |
Tour Logistics and Recommendations
To begin the tour, participants should make their way to the meeting point at 1 Seaview Ave, Oak Bluffs, MA, near the Oak Bluffs Steamship Authority ticket office.
The tour includes:
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Pickup and drop-off via ferry service.
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Air-conditioned transportation equipped with a screen for historical visuals.
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Accessibility for wheelchair users, making it the only wheelchair-accessible tour company on Martha’s Vineyard.
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No smoking allowed in the vehicle, and parking is available at Falmouth’s Palmer Ave Parking Lot, as there’s no parking at Woods Hole.
Comfortable shoes and sunglasses are recommended, and gratuities for the knowledgeable guides are appreciated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Martha’s Vineyard?
The best time to visit Martha’s Vineyard is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. The weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and you’ll find fewer travelers and lower prices compared to the busy summer months.
Can I Explore the Island Independently After the Tour?
Yes, you can explore Martha’s Vineyard independently after the tour. The island has many beaches, lighthouses, shops, and hiking trails that you can visit on your own to further discover its charms.
Are There Any Food or Dining Recommendations on the Island?
The tour doesn’t include dining recommendations, but Martha’s Vineyard offers a variety of local seafood, farm-to-table restaurants, and casual eateries. Visitors can explore charming downtowns like Edgartown and Oak Bluffs for excellent dining options after the tour.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Bringing layers and sun protection is advised, as the tour takes place outdoors across the island.
Are There Any Additional Activities or Attractions on the Island?
The tour focuses on the main sights, but Martha’s Vineyard offers many other activities and attractions. Visitors can explore art galleries, beaches, lighthouses, parks, and charming towns with unique shops and restaurants throughout the island.
The Sum Up
The "Martha’s Vineyard: All Island Tour" offers an exceptional way to explore the island’s rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides an immersive experience, covering significant sites, scenic viewpoints, and even locations featured in the iconic film "Jaws." With comfortable transportation and accessibility accommodations, this tour is a must-do for visitors seeking a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the enchanting Martha’s Vineyard.
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