| Woods Hole | |
|---|---|
&sq=&lang=&file=File:Relief_map_of_USA_Massachusetts.png)  Woods Hole Location of Woods Hole within Massachusetts &sq=&lang=&file=File:Usa_edcp_relief_location_map.png) Woods Hole Woods Hole (the United States) | |
| Coordinates | 41°31′00″N 70°40′58″W / 41.5167755°N 70.6828079°W[1] |
| Part of | Atlantic Ocean |
Woods Hole is a strait in Massachusetts separating the Elizabeth Islands from the village of Woods Hole on the mainland of Cape Cod. It is one of four straits allowing maritime passage between Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound. The others are Canapitsit Channel, Robinson's Hole and Quick's Hole. Woods Hole is often referred to as Woods Hole Passage to distinguish it from the village of Woods Hole, which is itself named after the passage.
Woods Hole is a naturally occurring, rocky, and treacherous passage, with shallow rocky areas scattered along both sides of the channel. The current is often strong running between Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound, mostly flowing at around 4 knots and occasionally as fast as 7 knots. The eastern (Vineyard Sound) side of the channel also splits into a southern branch, known as Broadway, which flows closer to Nonamesset Island.[2]
- ^ "Woods Hole Passage". Geographic Names Information System. United States Geological Survey, United States Department of the Interior. Retrieved 2018-11-12.
- ^ "BSC Cruising Guide Woods Hole Navigation". Retrieved 12 March 2016.