A self-supported trip created by
guest-paddler
Trip Overview
Edgartown Great Pond is a salt pond on the south shore of Martha's Vineyard island. It has about 15 miles of shoreline due to the several coves. It is shaped like a hand, with the fingers being coves pointing north away from the ocean. A trip done this summer from the town launch on Mashaket Neck around Kanomika Neck and up Janes Cove and Wintucket cove is about 5 1/2 miles. About 150 yards up Wintucket Cove I spotted an otter in the water watching me. A little further there was an osprey family, busily teaching the young. Osprey can be seen frequently on the salt ponds of Martha's Vineyard. At the end of Wintucket Cove are 2 wooden walls spanning the cove, very old and decomposed. There is a small opening in each to paddle though, but watch your draft, as it is shallow.
Janes Cove, the next to the left, is more developed along the shore. I did see several white swans and a white heron, along with ducks and cormorants. The houses are large and expensive, but generally built without trashing the shoreline. There is rarely any activity on the pond. I usually have the cove to myself. Sometimes there is another paddler in the distance, or someone in a skiff or Sunfish heading over to South beach.
Accommodations:
The town landing is a sand area with parking for 20-30 cars. I have never seen it full, even in August. There are usually several quohoggers skiffs moored nearby, but the shallowness doesn't lend itself to bigger powerboats.
Directions:
From the West Tisbury Rd, take Meeting House Way ( a 2 lane dirt road with washboard sections) 1.3 miles to a dirt road on the right. Follow this .8 miles to the town landing on Mashaket Neck
Trip Details
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Trip Duration:
Day Trip
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Sport/Activity:
Kayaking, Canoeing
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Skill Level:
Beginner
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Water Type:
Flat/Sheltered Water