When visiting Cape Cod as a large group, planning ways to spend time together can be challenging. Of course, the area’s beaches can hold all of you, but you might struggle to reserve tables at restaurants or book other venues with size constraints.
One option worth considering is a boat charter. Many vessels on the Cape can accommodate large groups, and it’s sometimes possible to book ferries for private sailings during certain times of the year.
Private sailing charters are particularly abundant from Falmouth Harbor and Woods Hole. Here’s a look at five ways to get your entire group on the water from Cape Cod.
1) The Liberte
For the ultimate in style and comfort, consider taking your group on the Liberte. This sailboat can accommodate 49 passengers and features music and a full bar, ensuring everyone has a good time as you travel Nantucket Sound. You can also arrange catering if you want to eat during your excursion.
If you’ve never sailed off the coast of Cape Cod before, it’s an experience you aren’t soon to forget, and the Liberte makes it possible without you having to shell out the money for a boat of your own.
2) The Falmouth Edgartown Ferry
The Falmouth Edgartown Ferry is the only service to provide regular trips between Cape Cod and Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard. The company also offers sightseeing excursions into Nantucket Sound from Falmouth Inner Harbor.
Large groups might be more inclined to book a charter, though, which is another service The Falmouth Edgartown Ferry offers. These private trips are available for day cruises, parties, and other events, and you can book a ship accommodating up to 130 people. The boat will have a bar, and you can arrange catering and entertainment on your trip, as well.
This option is flexible because they operate six boats of different sizes, allowing you to turn your group’s day on the water into whatever you wish.
3) Woods Hole Island Tours
If you have a smaller group but want to experience the waters of Vineyard Sound together, booking the Eagle’s Wing through Woods Hole Island Tours is an option. This boat can also hold six people at a time, but it’ll take you on a custom tour through the ocean at an affordable rate.
This boat leaves from the dock behind Landfall Restaurant in Woods Hole, making it a convenient location to reach as you take your family on the ocean.
4) Patriot Party Boats
The vessels at Patriot Party Boats depart from Falmouth Inner Harbor, getting you into Nantucket Sound in a matter of minutes. From there, your custom cruise can take you and your group anywhere you want to go in style and comfort.
This company operates multiple boats, giving you options as you book for your group. You’ll need to contact them directly for information on the vessels they have available for private parties.
This operator specializes in fishing excursions, but they’ll also take you out for a sunset cruise, birthday party, sightseeing trip, or anything else your group wants to do on the water.
5) Island Queen
The Island Queen is a ferry that runs between Falmouth Inner Harbor and Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard on a regular schedule between late May and the middle of October. However, booking a private two-hour charter in the spring or fall for groups of up to 200 people is possible.
Reserving this ship gives your group access to its main deck, sun deck, and mid-deck throughout your sailing, and you can purchase drinks through its beverage service. You can also ask about catering if you want to enjoy a meal on the water.
Securing the Island Queen is an excellent option if you’re visiting the Cape with a large group and want to get everyone on the same boat for a cruise.
Book Your Private Charter Early
Of course, you’ll need to book your charter far in advance to avoid disappointment when you get here. The earlier you reserve, the more options you’ll have available.
The same goes for your vacation rental on Cape Cod. Whether you need a small place for yourself or a larger home to hold your extended family, options are available. Search the available homes to see the possibilities.
