Ocracoke's mainland connection — toll ferries to Cedar Island and Swan Quarter
Ocracoke Island has no bridge and no road connection to the mainland — everything that doesn't fly in over the island's small airstrip arrives by boat. Ocracoke South is the terminal for the two toll ferry routes that make the crossing to the North Carolina mainland: one to Cedar Island, the other to Swan Quarter, each about two and a quarter hours across the Pamlico Sound. That's a separate crossing from the free ferry connecting Ocracoke's north end to Hatteras village, which takes roughly an hour — so the terminal you need depends on which direction you're traveling.
Because Ocracoke has no other way off besides these boats, the small plane strip, or the Hatteras ferry, these are also the first routes suspended when a storm threatens — check status directly before counting on a same-day crossing during hurricane season.
28 reviews
a month ago
RV Renegade 38ft w/Jeep in tow. 10am departure from Cedar Island. Staff directed us in with no issues. Great hand signals to see where we need to drive-park. Lane next to us was left empty so we could exit the coach since the main door was against the wall. Plenty of breeze during the crossing to cool us. Easy ride. Nice hand signals to get us directed off and back on to land once we arrived. Great experience.
12 months ago
Much More sociable and friendly than the Hatteras to Ocracoke Ferry. Nice little guest services area and great views. Remember to reserve your ticket in advance.
5 years ago
We were only on island for an hour waiting for ferry but it was nice. Ferry was large! Spent a little time on top deck hanging out. Was not a bad ride considering it was pretty windy and water was choppy.
2 years ago
I didn't take this port for ferry access but I will say that this parking lot is the BEST for sunsets. Hands down! All the locals recommended it as well. Beautiful and stunning!
4 years ago
It's not just a ride. It is an experience. One that every North Carolinian should have. Our great state has so many beautiful places to visit, but this is one of the best, most natural, places to slow down and be present.