Are banana boat rides suitable for young children?

Yes, rides are family-friendly and suitable for children as long as safety guidelines are followed.

How many people can join one banana boat ride?

Groups can range from 3 to 12 participants, with options for 30 or 60-minute rides.

What should I bring on the ride?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and sunglasses; avoid loose valuables or secure them in waterproof bags.

Are rides available year-round?

Rides run daily in warmer seasons with limited availability in colder months; check ahead for off-season scheduling.

Is previous experience required?

No experience is necessary; the ride is easy and guided by professional staff.

Can I book the ride for a private group event?

Yes, the company accommodates groups within the ride’s size limits—advance booking is recommended.

Banana Boat Rides at Martha's Vineyard Oceansports | Boat Tour | Water Activities

Martha’s Vineyard, off Massachusetts’ southern coast, is known for its rugged shoreline and charming seaside towns. Among its many water-based activities, Martha’s Vineyard Oceansports stands out by offering a unique twist on coastal fun: banana boat rides along State Beach. Designed to cater to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, this experience combines the rush of speed with the spectacular backdrop of the Atlantic coastline.

State Beach stretches along the eastern side of Oak Bluffs, where sandy shores meet cool ocean waves. The banana boat, a vibrant, inflatable watercraft shaped like a giant banana and towed behind a motorboat, glides over Chesapeake Bay’s calmer waters. Riders sit securely in rows, holding on tight as the boat bounces over waves, carving arcs that offer continuous glimpses of dunes and marshes. The ride is tunable for comfort and excitement, with 30 and 60-minute options accommodating groups from three up to a dozen.

What makes Martha’s Vineyard Oceansports a highlight in the local outdoor scene is how accessible and versatile this activity is. It’s not just about adrenaline but also about togetherness—kids, parents, adventure seekers, and visitors of all ages converge here to share laughter and thrills. The company’s frequent departures, scheduled every half hour, make it easy to fit into any day’s plans.

The local ecosystem adds more to the experience. Piping plovers and other shorebirds are common sights, while the island’s maritime climate ensures refreshing sea breezes. Historically, Oak Bluffs has been a vibrant summer destination since the 19th century, and today, Martha’s Vineyard Oceansports continues that tradition by connecting new generations to the island’s waters.

Whether you're chasing waves or memories with friends and family, banana boat rides here provide an accessible gateway to one of New England’s best coastal playgrounds.

About Martha's Vineyard Oceansports

Martha's Vineyard Oceansports operates from Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, offering a broad selection of boat rentals, guided tours, and watersports experiences around Martha’s Vineyard. The company runs private charters, sunset cruises, jet ski tours and rentals, parasailing flights, waterski and wakeboard charters, banana boat rides, and fishing-ready center-console rentals. Trips accommodate up to six passengers and are led by licensed U.S. Coast Guard captains or trained crew.

Fleet options range from jet skis and 17’ Boston Whalers to 38’ Fountain charters and modern center-console boats equipped for fishing. Popular excursions include a guided 2-hour jet ski tour from Oak Bluffs to Edgartown and intimate 1.5-hour private sunset cruises across the Elizabeth Islands. Watersports charters provide wakeboarding, waterskiing, kneeboarding, and tubing suitable for beginners and experienced riders. Parasailing flights use Paracraft Warrior and Patriot boats with dry take-offs and landings, and offer optional water dips.

Reservations are available daily for many experiences, and safety equipment, coolers, and ice are provided for private charters and sunset cruises. Professional instruction accompanies jet ski rentals and watersports to ensure a safe, enjoyable outing. The operation emphasizes small-group experiences, local knowledge of Vineyard waterways, and certified operation to deliver reliable, memorable days on the water. For visitors seeking guided sightseeing, adrenaline sports, fishing outings, or relaxed sunset cruises, Martha's Vineyard Oceansports provides a range of licensed, family-friendly options launched from Oak Bluffs. Booking information and seasonal availability are posted online and through local Oak Bluffs kiosks during peak summer months for visitor planning and group inquiries.