Please help my husband and me settle this. We haven't been to MV in many years (but we took our car). We went in July, and of course it was crowded and driving/parking was a pain. This time we are going in late September. I'm not even sure if the trolley runs its regular route then. I like the freedom of coming and going as I please. My husband doesn't want to deal with the ferry and driving hassle. Which raises the question--are car ferry reservations easier to get that time of year? We are staying in Edgartown and I know we can get wherever we want on foot there. I also know it is quite a hike to other parts of the island. Your opinions/suggestions please!

top please

YOu won't need reservations that time of year for the ferry. They don't even take them then. I agree, I'd feel stranded without my own wheels.

We almost always go first week of October. Things are slowing down by then and we've never had difficulty with parking, etc.
As for the ferry, yes it is a hassle to get advanced reservations and all.
Boils down to whether the extra freedom afforded by the car is worth the hassle. That's up to you.

To the top for me please.

Sal,
We never take a car to MV - we use bicycles instead. There are some very nice bike trails that you should try. But if you want to check out the schedule for trolley's and buses the MV chamber of commerce web site is www.mvy.com. They have schedules there.

Have fun -
Sandra

no, you don't need a car. Bikes and busesand waliking will get you around easily

Sal, depends on how fit you are, how old you are, and what time of day you want to get around. E.g., of you want to get out to Gay Head (Aguinnah), you are at someone's mercy, whether bus, tour operator, or whomever. Or if you want to go to a restaurant for dinner away from Edgartown, I don't think a bike is a good idea -- it's dark in the evening, etc. I noticed that there were a lot of taxis, though, so one hopes they are still there out of season. I suggest you call your hotel and ask them what they recommend for their guests -- will the trolley/bus "do it" or is it worth renting a car once you're on the island for a day or two (maybe not your entire stay).