Ocracoke Express Passenger Ferry

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The Ocracoke Express Passenger Ferry service operates Mondays-Saturdays from mid-May until early September.

The ferry carries up to 129 passengers per trip across the Pamlico Sound directly into Ocracoke Village, within walking or biking distance of all the village has to offer – from dining to shopping to strolls along the waterfront.

Once on land, travelers can take Hyde County’s free shuttle service, which departs from the ferry terminal and makes a loop around the village, stopping at several points of interest.

The N.C. Department of Transportation's passenger ferry service is another option to the existing vehicle ferries during the busy summer months. 

Although not required, reservations are recommended.
 

​ Make a Reservation

Frequently Asked Questions

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• What is the fare?
  A round-trip fare is $15​ per person. Children 3 and under ride free. There is also a $1 charge for a bicycle.
• What is the schedule?
  The 2025 Season runs Mondays-Saturdays from May 13-Sept. 15.
  
  On Tuesday-Thursday, the ferry will depart Hatteras at 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 1:45 p.m. and 5 p.m., with return trips from Ocracoke-Silver Lake at 9:45 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
  
  On Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays, the ferry departs Hatteras at 9:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., with return trips from Ocracoke-Silver Lake at 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 7:30 p.m.
  
  

  There is no passenger ferry service on Sunday.
  

• Where do I leave my car?
  ​There are 110 parking spaces and five overnight spaces available at the Hatteras ferry terminal. Parking is first-come, first-serve. Overnight parking is not available at the Ocracoke ferry terminal.
• Do I need a reservation?
  ​Although not required, reservations are recommended. To make a reservation, call 1-800-BY-FERRY or book online at ferry.ncdot.gov. To take the Ocracoke Express without a reservation, check in no later than 20 minutes before departure time. (Space is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.)
• When do I check in?
  ​All passengers must check in no later than 20 minutes before departure time.
• Can I bring carry-on items?
  ​Small carry-on items, backpacks and purses are allowed. Strollers and walkers are also allowed.
• How do I get around Ocracoke?
  ​The Silver Lake Ferry Terminal is within easy walking distance of most of Ocracoke’s shops and restaurants. Hyde County also provides free tram service around the Village, and bikes and golf carts are available for rental near the ferry terminal.

  
  

  
  
• Can I bring my bicycle?
  ​Yes. The Ocracoke Express passenger ferry has racks for passengers wanting to bring their bicycles to Ocracoke. There is a $1 cost for bicycles.
• ​Will there still be car ferries?

  Yes. Passenger ferry service is another option during busy summer months and not a replacement for regular vehicle ferries.​

Last updated Jul. 1, 2025