Ferry at Ocracoke Island
The ferry from Ocracoke Island to either Cedar Island or Swan Quarter on the North Carolina mainland leaves from the west end of the island—follow NC-12 to the end and you’ll drive right onto the boat (well, not quite). Unlike the ferry from Hatteras to Ocracoke, this one is not free and you can make reservations (highly recommended). Spaces not reserved are taken on a fist come, first served basis. The price is very reasonable ($15/standard automobile in 2024), and it doesn’t seem to be much of a problem getting on the ferry at the time you choose. You can make reservations up to 90 days in advance online or by phone. I took the 7:30 AM ferry to Cedar Island on a Wednesday in June and it was half full. The North Carolina Department of Transportation, which operates the ferry, requires that you arrive at least thirty minutes prior to departure.
The ride to Cedar Island takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. The ride to Swan Quarter takes 2 hours and 40 minutes. Once you have parked your car aboard the ferry you can get out and walk around. There are bathrooms on the boat and a passenger lounge on the upper deck, though there is nothing in the lounge other than seats, so you might as well just sit in your car unless it is super hot outside.
For a schedule and to make a reservation, visit the North Carolina DOT’s Ferry web page.
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Last updated on March 11, 2024
