Vineyard Haven slip repairs force ferry schedule changes

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The ferry Martha's Vineyard. – MVTimes file photo

Repairs to the north slip at the Steamship Authority Vineyard Haven terminal will require adjustments in the ferry schedule. The changes began Thursday, Feb. 12, and will continue through mid-April, according to Steamship Authority management.

Only the south slip will be available for use during the day, and for vessels staying overnight at the Island.

The Island Home will not berth in Vineyard Haven overnight on Fridays and Saturdays, as usual. In addition to the published schedule, the Island Home will add a 9:30 pm trip from Vineyard Haven to Woods Hole on Fridays and Saturdays, and a 6 am trip from Woods Hole to Vineyard Haven on Saturdays and Sundays. The additional trips have been added to the reservation system.

The availability of only one slip will take some boat shuffling. The ferry Martha’s Vineyard will need to move out of the south slip temporarily at 9 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and return to the Vineyard Haven slip after the 9:30 trip of the Island Home departs.

The Steamship Authority said having only one slip available may affect the reliability of scheduled ferry service under windy conditions, especially when the wind comes from the north.