Book Your Ferry

The Ocracoke Island ferries are where your adventure begins.

Part of Ocracoke Island’s charm is that it’s an island in the truest sense, meaning you’ll have to take a ferry, a private boat, or a plane to join us. If you’d like to know more about private boat or plane options, check out How To Get Here.

Tips for the savvy ferry-er.

Due to popularity of the ferries in the prime portion of the summer vacation calendar, the savvy traveler should call 1-800-BY-FERRY or click here to check the ferry schedule and make your ferry reservation in advance. If you’re making a daytrip to Ocracoke, plan to arrive as early as possible, as the ferries operate on a “first-come, first-served” basis. The busiest daytripping days are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. You can avoid a long wait by arriving before 9 a.m., or visiting on Monday, Friday, and/or the weekend.

Choose from four ferry options to Ocracoke Island.

From Highway 12 located along the Outer Banks, the Hatteras Ferry crossing is FREE and takes about 1 hour. Departure times vary by season. The Swan Quarter Ferry (2 hours, 40 minutes) and Cedar Island Ferry (2 hours, 10 minutes) ferry routes are tolled. Reservations are required.

The ferry schedule can be subject to change due to weather conditions and traffic. It’s always a good idea to call ahead at 252-996-6000. Enjoy the ride!

For the current ferry schedule and contact information, click here.

For NCDOT ferry route information, schedules, and reservations, call 1-800-BY-FERRY or click here.