All New Shared Jaws tour Budget Friendly

If you’re a fan of the iconic movie Jaws or simply love exploring film history in scenic settings, this shared Jaws tour on Martha’s Vineyard might just be your next favorite activity. Priced at $130 per person and lasting about four hours, it offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and photo opportunities—all led by guides with a genuine passion for the island and its cinematic fame.

One of the standout features of this tour is the knowledgeable guides—Matt Taylor, in particular, gets high praise for his storytelling skills and personal connections to Martha’s Vineyard. He’s not just a tour guide; he’s a storyteller who weaves in unpublished stories and interesting trivia about the filming of Jaws, making it a memorable experience for movie buffs and casual travelers alike. The fact that it’s budget-friendly makes it accessible for many travelers, especially considering the depth of information and scenic stops included.

That said, as with any tour, there are some considerations. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, which means a more personal experience, but it also requires booking well in advance—average bookings are made 83 days ahead. The tour is casual, with a focus on scenic stops and stories rather than a rigorous schedule, so if you’re looking for a fast-paced, packed itinerary, this might not be for you. It’s best suited for those who enjoy storytelling, photography, and a relaxed pace exploring Jaws filming sites.

This tour appeals most to film enthusiasts, history buffs, and travelers seeking a personalized, authentic experience that combines scenic exploration with entertainment and insider stories.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from guides with genuine ties to Martha’s Vineyard enhances the experience.
• Scenic stops include famous film locations like Chief Brody’s house, Menemsha, and the Aquinnah Cliffs.
• Photo opportunities abound, with stops at the Jaws bridge and iconic beaches used in the filming.
• Affordable price offers good value, especially given the depth of stories and the scenic beauty.
• Limited group size ensures a more personal and engaging experience, but requires early booking.
• Flexible options like returning on public transport (bus #13) make it easier to customize your day.

A Closer Look at the Jaws Tour Experience

Introduction to the Tour

Our review centers on this budget-friendly, all-new shared Jaws tour on Martha’s Vineyard, a trip designed for fans of the movie and those curious about the island’s cinematic history. The tour is crafted to be both informative and relaxed, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories, film lore, and behind-the-scenes details that you won’t find in the typical guidebook.

What makes this experience stand out is the personal touch provided by guides like Matt Taylor, a Martha’s Vineyard historian and author. His strong family ties to the island and deep knowledge of the filming process, along with his personable style, elevate what could be just a regular sightseeing tour into something memorable.

One of the few drawbacks? The tour’s duration of about four hours means you’ll want to plan your day accordingly—it’s a fairly quick, punchy experience focused on the highlights. Also, since the tour is popular and books well in advance, securing a spot requires some forward planning.

If you’re into film history, scenic drives, and authentic local stories, this tour is perfect for you. It’s especially suited to travelers wanting a budget-friendly way to explore the island’s Jaws filming locations with expert insights.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The tour kicks off at 1 Seaview Ave, Oak Bluffs, at 11:00 am. From here, the group is small—up to 10 people—creating an intimate atmosphere where everyone can ask questions and get personalized attention.

First Stop: Chief Brody’s House and Beaches

The journey begins with visits to Chief Brody’s house and other beaches used during filming. This is where you’ll have time to snap photos and imagine the iconic scenes unfolding on Martha’s Vineyard’s shores. Many reviews highlight the guides’ storytelling here, with Dave, in particular, earning praise for sharing engaging behind-the-scenes stories and cast anecdotes. Expect to see some of the most recognizable film locations, and the relaxed pace means you can soak in the scenery comfortably.

Stop 1: Menemsha

Next, you’ll visit Menemsha, where you can see the location of Captain Quint’s house and the famous green buoy. This site is notable not only for its connection to Jaws but also as a picture-perfect fishing village. The stop lasts around 10 minutes, giving enough time to take photos and hear some fun trivia—most notably that the green buoy is one of the most recognizable film landmarks.

Stop 2: Aquinnah Cliffs

The tour then heads to the breathtaking Aquinnah Cliffs, where the Amity sign was placed in the movie. With about 15 minutes here, you’ll have ample time to admire the panoramic views, capture some photos, and hear stories about how the cliffs were used during filming. The natural beauty of this site makes it a highlight and a favorite among many reviewers.

The Jaws Bridge and Amity Ville

Arguably, the most iconic stop on the tour is crossing the Jaws Bridge—listed as one of the island’s top five attractions. You’ll go over it, with plenty of time to take photos and soak in the history. The guide shares lesser-known stories and movie trivia, making this a memorable photo op.

You also have the option to return independently by public bus (#13) if you wish to extend your visit or explore more of the island afterward.

Optional Swim or Relaxation

While not explicitly included, reviewers mention bringing a bathing suit and towel, especially if you plan to return to the bridge area for a quick swim or to relax by the water.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers a rich storytelling experience and scenic stops, all for a reasonable price. The only included feature is the history of the movie Jaws—a highlight for film buffs.

Things to keep in mind:
– Not included: lunch, gratuities, or additional entrance fees (most stops are free).
– Bring: camera, sunscreen, water, bathing suit if you plan to swim, and a positive attitude.

The Value of This Tour

At $130, this tour presents good value considering the depth of stories, the scenic locations, and the personal attention from guides like Matt and Dave. The reviews consistently emphasize the guides’ knowledge and personable approach, which significantly enhances the experience. The small group size creates a cozy environment, making it easier to ask questions and get tailored insights.

Why it’s a good deal:

• You get multiple film locations with historical context
• Photo opportunities at iconic sites like the Jaws bridge and beaches
• Expert guides sharing unpublished stories and personal anecdotes
• An itinerary that balances scenic beauty with film trivia
• Bookings are generally made well in advance, reflecting high demand and popularity

The tour’s limitations:

• It’s a shorter, more relaxed experience, so those expecting a longer, in-depth day might need to supplement with other activities
• Limited availability means early booking is essential
• No included meals or additional activities, so plan accordingly

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for film lovers, particularly those who cherish Jaws, but it also appeals to anyone wanting a personalized, scenic exploration of Martha’s Vineyard’s most famous film spots. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate storytelling, scenic views, and a relaxed pace. Families with children under 8 should note children will need car seats, and the small group size makes it a good choice for couples or solo travelers looking for a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

This shared Jaws tour offers a compelling blend of film history, scenic beauty, and engaging storytelling—all at an accessible price point. The guides’ expertise shines through, transforming familiar locations into vivid stories and memories. Whether you’re a dedicated Jaws fan or a casual visitor wanting to see Martha’s Vineyard through a unique lens, this tour provides authentic insights and fun photo moments.

The small group size, early booking requirement, and flexible return options make it a practical choice for many travelers. It’s especially well-suited for those who value knowledgeable guides and a relaxed, personal experience without breaking the bank.

In the end, this tour delivers a memorable glimpse into the island’s cinematic past while allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty and charm of Martha’s Vineyard.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately four hours, including travel time and stops at key filming locations.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 1 Seaview Ave, Oak Bluffs, at 11:00 am, and returns to the same meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 8 will need car seats. The experience is relaxed and family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, water, a bathing suit and towel if you plan to swim, and comfortable shoes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Are the stops accessible?
Most stops are outdoors and involve short walks; the tour is near public transportation, but check specific site accessibility if needed.

This Jaws tour on Martha’s Vineyard blends film lore, scenic stops, and engaging guides, making it a great choice for those wanting an authentic, budget-friendly experience on the island.