FerryConnect

USA (North Carolina)

Hatteras → Ocracoke Island

The free car ferry across Hatteras Inlet that carries NC 12 from Hatteras Island to Ocracoke, part of the Outer Banks National Scenic Byway.

⏱ About 1h 10m🚢 1 operator📅 About 18–25 departures a day each way depending on season, from 5am to midnight🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly
Book with NCDOT Ferry Division→

Hatteras to Ocracoke Island ferry at a glance

The ferry from Hatteras to Ocracoke Island takes About 1h 10m across the Pamlico Sound (Hatteras Inlet), operated by NCDOT Ferry Division. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: about 18–25 departures a day each way depending on season, from 5am to midnight.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: ncdot.gov · How we verify

Return crossing: Ocracoke Island to Hatteras

NCDOT Ferry Division also sails Ocracoke Island to Hatteras, taking About 1h 10m. The first boat from Ocracoke leaves at 4:00–4:30am.

Hatteras to Ocracoke Island ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Hourly or better from 5:00am to midnight, up to about 25 departures a day between 31 March and 19 October

From 20 October to 31 December 2026 departures are roughly hourly (about 18 a day); extra boats are added at busy times.

Return: The first boat from Ocracoke leaves at 4:00–4:30am.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official NCDOT Ferry Division timetable →

Source: NCDOT Ferry Division 2026 schedule. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Hatteras and Ocracoke Island

📐 4 Nautical Miles
Hatteras⇄Ocracoke Island
⏱ About 1h 10m · 📐 4 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚓ Operator website

Ready to cross from Hatteras to Ocracoke Island?

Book your crossing with NCDOT Ferry Division: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Book with NCDOT Ferry Division→

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
NCDOT Ferry DivisionAbout 1h 10mCar ferries

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

4 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • NC 12 continues about 13 miles from the Ocracoke ferry landing to Ocracoke village
  • From Ocracoke village, state ferries continue to Cedar Island and Swan Quarter on the mainland

Tips for the Hatteras to Ocracoke Island Crossing

  • The route is free; priority passes give priority loading on this route only.

Related Ferry Crossings

Nearby alternative crossingSwan Quarter → Ocracoke (village)About 2h 40m · NCDOT Ferry DivisionNearby alternative crossingCedar Island → Ocracoke (village)About 2h 15m · NCDOT Ferry DivisionMore ferries in United StatesSeattle → Bainbridge Island35m · Washington State FerriesMore ferries in United StatesLudington → Manitowoc4h 00m · Lake Michigan Carferry (SS Badger)More ferries in United StatesSeattle → Victoria (BC)2h 45m · FRS ClipperMore ferries in United StatesPort Angeles → Victoria (BC)1h 30m · Black Ball Ferry Line
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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Hatteras to Ocracoke Island?
The crossing typically takes About 1h 10m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Hatteras to Ocracoke Island ferry sail?
Hourly or better from 5:00am to midnight, up to about 25 departures a day between 31 March and 19 October. From 20 October to 31 December 2026 departures are roughly hourly (about 18 a day); extra boats are added at busy times. This is the pattern published in the NCDOT Ferry Division 2026 schedule (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Hatteras to Ocracoke Island?
NCDOT Ferry Division operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Hatteras to Ocracoke Island ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Hatteras to Ocracoke Island ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Hatteras to Ocracoke Island ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Hatteras from Ocracoke Island by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 4 nautical miles (roughly 7 km).