Ocracoke Island Ferries

Few vacation spots can compare to Ocracoke Island. It’s easy to see why this one-of-a-kind Outer Banks isle has such a marvelous reputation. Part of the experience is in the relaxing, fun-filled ferry rides that take you to and from this acclaimed destination.

Three Ways to Get to Ocracoke Island

The Hatteras ferry. This is the shortest ferry ride at approximately 45 minutes each way. However, the drive down Highway 12 from Nags head to the dock takes about two hours, so figure this into your plans. The ferry runs every 30 minutes during the summer and hourly during the off-season. The arrival point on Ocracoke island is served by modern paved roads that will take you anywhere you want to go. Cost is free. This is an extremely popular ferry ride, so make reservations early and arrive ahead of time.
The Cedar Island ferry. The trip to Ocracoke Island from this station is a little over two hours long. This ferry runs six or seven times during the summer and perhaps three times a day during the rest of the year. Costs vary between $10-$20 depending on vehicle size and weight. The arrival spot on the island is very close to shops, dining venues, and other attractions.
The Swan Quarter ferry. The mainland departure point is located in an isolated part of the coast. Trip length is approximately 2 1/2 hours and takes visitors to a well-equipped port with restrooms and vending machines. Fees vary depending on the type of vehicle you’re driving, but are usually around $15.

What to Do Once You’re Here

There are many reasons why Ocracoke Island is such a beloved getaway spot. It offers all the things that make the Outer Banks truly distinctive, along with easy convenience and friendly surroundings. Some of the things you can do during your trip include:

Indulge your passion for outdoor activities. You’ll find plenty to do here, whether you’re into fishing, kite flying, sunbathing, shell gathering, swimming, parasailing, or simply enjoying the blissful sights and sounds of the beach.
Visit Springer’s Point Preserve. This 120 acre wildlife paradise with salt marshes, red cedar forests, beaches and wildlife is virtually untouched by human development.
Spend some time browsing the island’s many shops. Whether you’re looking for apparel, antiques, lighthouse-themed products, sporting goods, arts and crafts, or what-have-you, you’ll find it all in Ocracoke Village.
Savor some of the best cuisine found anywhere. You’ll enjoy the finest meals of your life on Ocracoke Island, whether your tastes run more towards seafood or landlubber dishes. Grab a quick snack or settle back for a magnificent multi-course dinner.
Get married. Ocracoke Island is a favorite place for couples looking to tie the knot. You’ll find everything you need to make your wedding day unforgettable, whether you want a lavish ceremony with catered food and a magnificent church or a more intimate affair with a handful of select guests.
Watch the sun rise. Or set. Or both. Ocracoke Island is acclaimed as one of the choice locations on earth for enjoying this amazing experience.
Enjoy a night on the town. Drinks, fine foods, dancing and live entertainment are readily available. Or sneak away from civilization for a cozy rendezvous with a special someone. Or stroll along a windswept beach and gaze up at a starry, moonlit sky. No matter what your pleasure is, you’ll find it on Ocracoke Island.

More about the Ferries

You’ll need to take a ferry to Ocracoke Island unless you plan to charter a plane. Information on schedules and fares changes from time to time. So we recommend checking out the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s ferry division webpage for station locations and other important details. In the meantime, browse our site to see our many delightful vacation rental homes. We look forward to welcoming you to the Outer Banks.