Steamboats to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket (Images of America) Paperback – March 23, 2015

The Great White Fleet (a term referring to the wonderful coastal steam boats which used to run between New Bedford, Woods Hole, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket) were wonderful boats. Folks used to plan their visits to the island (or off) to take advantage of the scheduling of these vessels. They were beautiful, elegant and simple, and quiet except for the wail of their whistle. Islanders who knew, rode and loved these vessels still mourn their demise and are glad that occasionally one can hear a steam whistle from one of the current crop of ferries which have been refitted with an old steam whistle.This wonderful books contains photos and stories of an era of gracious (albeit occasionally inconvenient -- if the numbers of travelers and cars exceeded the capacity) travel that is sadly behind us.Meanwhile the NOBSKA's engine remains in storage, in case someone wishes to build a replica...................

This is a wonderful collection of photographs that bring alive the grand era of steamboats in the United States. Although there are modern, diesel-powered ferries operating to and from Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket today, it's simply not the same. The old steamers like the Nobska, Naushon, and the others, all had distinctive personalities that just doesn't seem to be the case with today's modern boats. If you want to truly feel what the era of steamboats to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket was like, this book is for you. A great labor of love!

Great history and photo collection. Makes me miss the old Nobska ! This is the first new book like this that I know of since Paul Morris wrote "The Island Steamers" in 1977. Lots of good photos and a good written history.

Very disappointing. The photos are pedestrian, and not very well reproduced. Furthermore, there are very few pictures of the interiors of the island ferries. I recommend giving this one a pass.

Nantucket is an island with a lot of history and a big part of that history is found in the ferries that have served the island. I can't say enough good things about this book. If you are a ship buff, or fan of Nantucket and Cape Cod history you will enjoy this book tremendously