Is there a train from Edgartown to Portland?

No, there is no direct rail service from Martha's Vineyard to Portland.

How long is the ferry ride?

The ferry from Vineyard Haven to Woods Hole takes approximately 45 minutes.

Do I need a car in Portland?

Portland is walkable, but a car is helpful for visiting nearby lighthouses.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, you will encounter tolls on the Maine Turnpike and in New Hampshire.

Can I fly from the island to Portland?

There are no direct commercial flights; you would need to connect through Boston.

Edgartown

Portland

Driving Ship

Edgartown to Portland

Updated: 31 May 2026

Your journey begins with a Steamship Authority ferry crossing from Martha's Vineyard to Woods Hole. From Woods Hole, you will drive through Cape Cod via Route 28 to reach I-495 North. Transition onto I-95 North, which serves as the primary artery through Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and into Maine. The total driving distance is approximately 240 miles, typically taking 5 hours depending on traffic near Boston. This route offers a quintessential New England experience, transitioning from island life to the historic coastal charm of Portland.

Total Distance: 386 km driving distance; 280 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving from Woods Hole to Portland is the fastest method, taking roughly 4 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle after the ferry is the most cost-effective for groups.

Compare Edgartown to Portland Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	4 hours 15 minutes	45 minutes
Avg Price	$40 - $60 fuel	$20 - $100
Operator	Personal Vehicle	Steamship Authority
Route	Route 28 to I-495 N to I-95 N	Edgartown to Woods Hole
Tip	Avoid the Tobin Bridge during morning rush hour to save time.	Book your vehicle reservation weeks in advance during summer.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Always book your ferry slot for your car at least three months ahead.
Traffic Alerts
Use navigation apps to monitor I-95 traffic near the Massachusetts-New Hampshire border.
Parking in Woods Hole
If you leave your car behind, use the designated ferry parking lots with shuttle service.
Toll Payments
Ensure you have an E-ZPass transponder for seamless travel through tolls in Maine and NH.
Dining
Stop in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, for a mid-trip lunch break.

Safety Tips

Weather Awareness
Coastal fog can reduce visibility significantly on the ferry and coastal roads.
Winter Driving
Be prepared for icy conditions on I-95 during the winter months.
Emergency Kits
Keep a basic roadside emergency kit in your trunk for long highway stretches.
Wildlife
Watch for deer crossing the roads, especially during dawn and dusk in rural Maine.