News Release

New Transportation Option Between Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands Launches May 20

Date: May 17, 2019
Contact: Mike Barber, 252-475-9032

Starting Monday, May 20, the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Ocracoke Express passenger ferry service will begin shuttling visitors between Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands.

The new passenger-only ferry will make three round trips daily from May 22 through September 5. Departures will occur from the Hatteras Terminal at 9:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 5:00 pm. Departures from the Ocracoke Silver Lake Terminal will occur at 11:00 am, 3:00 pm, and 7:00 pm. The one-way ferry trip takes approximately 70 minutes.

On May 20-21, the ferry service will be free as a preview to passengers. An initial cost of $1 each way will begin May 22. There will be no extra charge for bicycles.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation recommends that passengers arrive at the Hatteras terminal at least 20 minutes before departure time. At first, passenger ferry reservations will not be needed. A reservation system will be put in place at a later date.