Portsmouth Island Boat Tours

Attraction near Ocracoke

(23)

Ocracoke, NC

About

Portsmouth Island Boat Tours ferries passengers from the Community Square Dock on Silver Lake Harbor in Ocracoke village across to Portsmouth Island, run by brothers Rudy and Donald Austin — both lifelong Ocracoke residents and former state ferry captains. The boat ride itself takes about 20 minutes, and Captain Austin narrates the area's history along the way, from Blackbeard's pirate days to the village's role during World War II.

Drop-off at the historic Portsmouth "Ghost Village," left largely as it was when the last residents departed in 1971
Trip options include straight village visits, sunset cruises, and runs to Portsmouth's more remote shelling beaches
294 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960
(252) 928-5431 or (252) 928-4361 · portsmouthislandtours.com

Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent — there are no services once you're on the island, and the historic homes and church are look-but-don't-touch as part of the National Park Service's preserved village.

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4.5

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Kim Robertson

3 years ago

Went to portsmouth island with Donald Austin today and we had a great time, Donald grew up in Ocracoke so he knew a lot of history about both islands. we found out lots of cool information! We even got to see a ton of pelicans up close on pelican island. We did the beach part and the shelling was pretty cool on portsmouth island, I found a big conch shell, sand dollars, a few bonnets and other treasures.. today was truly amazing!! I Definitely recommend going with Donald Austin for ur portsmouth island adventure!! He was awesome!! can't wait to go again!!

Lauren Style

2 months ago

We've gone on 2 tours with this company and both were amazing! It's a highlight of any trip to Ocracoke!

Jeff Arnold

a month ago

We signed up for the “Discover Nearby Islands & Pamlico Sound” tour, since we had already been to Portsmouth Island. We got on the boat with other people who were going to Portsmouth Island, so we went out there first, and then Donald took us to Beacon Island and then back to the village, via Springer Point. No Casey Island or Shell Castle, and no Pamlico Sound. Very disappointing.

Gail Frey

11 months ago

What a wonderful trip. Donald Austin native of Ocracoke told about the area. If you like shelling, surf fishing, or just relaxing on the beach this is a great trip. Take your bug spray, sunblock, something to drink, and a snack. Wear some water shoes you will be going in the water. It was just a great trip. $25 and tip well worth it. Certainly will be taking this trip again.

Emily Talbott

3 years ago

This excursion to Portsmouth Island was definitely one of the high points of our vacation. Ocracoke native and boat captain Donald Austins was so friendly and knowledgeable. We spent an idyllic three hours exploring the coast and finding beautiful shells. Hope to go again.