The short answer
STEAMSHIP AUTH WOODS HOLE is an authentic marine ferry charge from the Woods Hole, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority for passenger, vehicle, and freight transportation between Cape Cod and the Massachusetts islands.
Why Steamship Authority Billed Your Statement
Seeing STEAMSHIP AUTH WOODS HOLE on your bank statement indicates an authorized ticket purchase from the Woods Hole, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority for Steamship Authority Island Ferry Passenger & Vehicle Booking transit between mainland Massachusetts and the islands. This transaction covers advance vehicle reservations, high-speed passenger tickets, standard walk-on fares, or terminal parking permits. Travelers frequently book these island trips months ahead of time, which explains why statement postings arrive well before departure dates.
Because the Steamship Authority operates public ferry routes from Woods Hole and Hyannis to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, billing descriptors often include port identifiers or local customer service phone numbers. Vehicle reservations require deposit fees or full pre-payment depending on seasonal booking rules, leading to substantial credit card charges upon initial reservation confirmation. Checking confirmation emails clarifies the exact travel dates.
To review your reservation details, booking confirmation codes, or travel itineraries, log in to your account profile at steamshipauthority.com and navigate to the reservations dashboard. If you need to modify or cancel your upcoming ferry travel, submit changes online or call customer service before statutory deadlines to secure applicable ticket refunds.
- Advance vehicle reservation booking for travel to Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket
- Passenger ferry ticket purchased online or at the Woods Hole or Hyannis ticket office
- High-speed passenger ferry booking on the Iyanough between Hyannis and Nantucket
- Terminal parking lot charge at Palmer Avenue, Thomas Landers, or Cataumet parking areas
- Check your email for a Steamship Authority vehicle reservation confirmation or barcode ticket.
- Confirm whether you or an authorized family member visited Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, or Nantucket.
- Inspect your account at steamshipauthority.com under My Reservations.
Can I modify or cancel a Steamship Authority vehicle reservation?
Vehicle reservations can be modified or canceled online at steamshipauthority.com; cancellations made at least 14 days prior to departure receive refunds minus a processing fee.
How do I resolve a duplicate charge on my Steamship Authority reservation?
Call the Steamship Authority reservation office at 508-477-8600 with your confirmation number and card details.
Independent reference — not affiliated with The Woods Hole, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority. Billing names and policies change; verify with the merchant or your bank before acting.
Verified sources
Every claim on this page is checked against official sources — open them to confirm before you call your bank.
- Steamship Authority Fares and Schedules https://www.steamshipauthority.com/fares_and_schedules
- Steamship Authority Reservation Policies https://www.steamshipauthority.com/about/policies
Reviewed Sep 11, 2026 · high · About UnknownCharges