how many cars on ferry to chappaquiddick

Daniel Parker

2 min read

·

19-01-2025

1

0

Share

How Many Cars Can the Chappy Ferry Carry? Navigating the Edgartown-Chappaquiddick Ferry

The Chappy Ferry, officially known as the Edgartown-Chappaquiddick Ferry, is a vital link between Edgartown on Martha's Vineyard and the charming island of Chappaquiddick. For visitors and residents alike, understanding its capacity, especially regarding vehicle transport, is crucial for planning trips. So, how many cars can the ferry actually hold?

The answer isn't a simple number. The ferry's car capacity isn't fixed and depends on several factors:

• The Specific Ferry Boat: The Martha's Vineyard Steamship Authority (MVSA) operates the ferry service. They utilize different vessels, each with varying dimensions and car-carrying capacity. Some ferries are larger and can accommodate more vehicles than others.
• Vehicle Size: The number of cars the ferry can carry is directly affected by the size of the vehicles being transported. Larger vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, or RVs, take up more space than smaller cars. This means fewer large vehicles can fit on a single trip.
• Passenger Numbers: Passenger volume influences car capacity. The need to balance vehicles and passenger space sometimes limits the number of cars allowed.

Finding the Current Capacity:

Unfortunately, there isn't a readily available, constantly updated number for the exact car capacity on any given ferry trip. The best way to determine how many cars are currently allowed is to:

1. Check the MVSA Website: The official MVSA website is your primary resource. Their website typically provides real-time information about ferry schedules, and often includes current capacity details.
2. Call the MVSA: If you need immediate clarification, calling the MVSA directly will provide the most up-to-date information on car capacity and potential wait times.
3. Observe the Ferry: If you're already at the ferry terminal, you can observe the loading process to get a sense of the current vehicle capacity for that particular trip.

Tips for a Smooth Ferry Trip:

• Arrive Early: Especially during peak seasons, arriving early significantly reduces the chance of being turned away due to capacity limitations.
• Check the Website or Call Ahead: Don't rely on assumptions. Plan ahead by checking the MVSA website or contacting them directly to understand the expected car capacity and possible wait times.
• Consider Alternatives: If the ferry is full, alternative transportation to Chappaquiddick might be necessary. This could include taxis or ride-sharing services if available.

Beyond Car Capacity: What Else to Consider

The ferry isn't just about cars; remember that:

• Bicycles: The ferry usually accommodates bicycles.
• Foot Passengers: Walk-on passengers are also carried.
• Seasonal Variations: Expect higher traffic and potential capacity restrictions during the peak summer tourist season.

The Edgartown-Chappaquiddick Ferry is an essential part of Martha's Vineyard life. By utilizing the resources mentioned above and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey across the waters to Chappaquiddick. Remember that flexibility is key, and checking the ferry's current capacity is vital for a successful trip.