WOODS HOLE – The Steamship Authority ferry Woods Hole ran aground in shallow water Thursday morning as it approached the slip in Vineyard Haven.
A statement from General Manager Robert Davis said the vessel was able to back off the soft bottom and berth safely.
There were 146 passengers on board, but no reported injuries.
The cause is under investigation and the boat was cleared by the Coast Guard to return to Woods Hole without passengers.
Both the captain and the pilot described as having decades of experience.
The ferry will remain out of service until fully inspected by the Coast Guard.