Ferry Ride to Ocracoke Island
Every year thousands
of tourists enjoy this ferry route across Hatteras Inlet which
separates Hatteras Island from Ocracoke Island. The crossing
takes about an hour to cross. The ferries can accommodate motorcycles
and any size car, trailer or recreational vehicle that can operate on
the highway. Special permits are available for vehicles over 65
feet. Service is provided 365 days a year on all routes. Weather
conditions, such as tides, winds and heavy rain can affect
travel.
Pets are permitted on the vessels and must be kept in the vehicle or leashed when out of the vehicle.
Departure times... Learn more
The island of
Ocracoke is one of the most remote islands of the Outer Banks, as it
can only be reached by one of three public ferries (two of which are
toll ferries), private boat, or private plane. Other than the village
of Ocracoke, the entire island is part of the Cape Hatteras National
Seashore.... Learn more
The village of
Ocracoke is located around a small sheltered harbor called Silver Lake,
with a second smaller residential area built around a series of
man-made canals called Oyster Creek. The village is located at the
widest point of the island, protected from the Atlantic Ocean by sand
dunes and a salt marsh. The average height of the island is less than
five feet above sea level, and many of the buildings on the island are
built on pilings to lift them off the ground. Flooding is a risk during
both hurricanes and large storms. Ocracoke Lighthouse is situated near
Silver Lake and has remained in continuous operation since 1823.... Learn more
Over a century ago,
Portsmouth Village was a bustling sea village. Today, the village is
uninhabited and stands in stark contrast to its days filled with sounds
of fishermen, children playing, lifesavers practicing rescue drills,
the tinkle of livestock bells, and the call of "Mailboat!". Yet all has
not been lost. These structures in the village tell a story of changing
times. The echoes of the past seem to surround you here, inviting you
to explore and to imagine the daily struggle against this harsh
environment.... Learn more
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