FerryConnect

USA (North Carolina)

Southport → Fort Fisher

A 35-minute crossing of the mouth of the Cape Fear River between historic Southport and Fort Fisher at the southern tip of Pleasure Island, near Kure Beach and the NC Aquarium.

⏱ About 35m🚢 1 operator📅 About 14–16 sailings a day each way, roughly every 45 minutes🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly
Book with NCDOT Ferry Division→

Southport to Fort Fisher ferry at a glance

The ferry from Southport to Fort Fisher takes About 35m across the Cape Fear River, operated by NCDOT Ferry Division. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: about 14–16 sailings a day each way, roughly every 45 minutes.

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: Fort Fisher to Southport

NCDOT Ferry Division also sails Fort Fisher to Southport, taking About 35m. The first weekday boat from Fort Fisher leaves at 6:15am.

Southport to Fort Fisher ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Weekdays from 5:30am to about 6:15pm from Southport, roughly every 45 minutes; weekends from 7:00am

Return: The first weekday boat from Fort Fisher leaves at 6:15am.

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 Southport and Fort Fisher

📐 5 Nautical Miles
Southport⇄Fort Fisher
⏱ About 35m · 📐 5 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
🚗 Operator website

Ready to cross from Southport to Fort Fisher?

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 35mCar ferries

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

5 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Fort Fisher connects north via US 421 to Kure Beach, Carolina Beach and Wilmington

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Southport to Fort Fisher?
The crossing typically takes About 35m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Southport to Fort Fisher ferry sail?
Weekdays from 5:30am to about 6:15pm from Southport, roughly every 45 minutes; weekends from 7:00am. 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 Southport to Fort Fisher?
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 Southport to Fort Fisher 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 Southport to Fort Fisher 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 Southport to Fort Fisher 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 Southport from Fort Fisher by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 5 nautical miles (roughly 9 km).