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Beaufort to Shackleford Banks West End

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Beaufort to Shackleford Banks West End Ferry

Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026

(c) Map data: OpenStreetMap contributors, via Geoapify

Departs

Beaufort

North Carolina

25m
1.7 nm

Arrives

Shackleford Banks West End

North Carolina

Operated byCape Lookout National Seashore logoCape Lookout National Seashore
19 sailings listed1.7 nm
View timetableReverse route

At a glance

The Beaufort to Shackleford Banks West End ferry takes about 25m, with 19 sailings a day between 08:30 and 17:30. It is operated by Cape Lookout National Seashore.

First sailing
08:30
Last sailing
17:30
Sailings / day
19
Crossing
25m

Beaufort to Shackleford Banks West End ferry timetable

DepartsDurationOperatorRuns
08:3025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
09:0025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
09:3025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
10:0025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
10:3025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
11:0025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
11:3025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
12:0025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
12:3025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
13:0025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
13:3025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
14:0025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
14:3025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
15:0025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
15:3025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
16:0025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
16:3025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
17:0025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
17:3025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily

Times are indicative and may change seasonally. Confirm with the operator before travelling.

About the Beaufort – Shackleford Banks West End crossing

A 25-minute crossing connects Beaufort, North Carolina, with the West End of Shackleford Banks. The route spans approximately 2 nautical miles across the waters of the Beaufort Inlet. Cape Lookout National Seashore is the sole operator for this domestic service.

The operator provides 19 scheduled sailings every day of the week. Departures from Beaufort begin at 08:30 and run until the final crossing at 17:30.

Vehicles, pets & onboard

  • Passenger & vehicle ferries
  • Authorized concessioners
  • Seasonal service
  • Lighthouse & wild horses

Vehicle space is available on this route — book early, especially in peak season. Onboard facilities and vehicle, pet and luggage policies vary by operator and vessel; confirm details with the operator before booking.

Getting to & from the ports

Departure port

Beaufort

North Carolina

Port guide & all routes

Arrival port

Shackleford Banks West End

North Carolina

Port guide & all routes

Frequently asked questions

How long is the ferry ride?

Around 25m, depending on sea conditions.

Can I book the return crossing too?

Yes, check the return route for its own times and fares.

Does this ferry cross an international border?

No, it's entirely within United States.

Who runs this ferry crossing?

Cape Lookout National Seashore.

What time is the last sailing?

Sailings run from 08:30 to 17:30.

How often does the ferry run?

19 sailings a day on this route.

How much does a ticket cost?

Ticket prices vary by operator, season and whether you bring a vehicle. Check the operator (Cape Lookout National Seashore) for current fares.

Can I do this as a day trip?

A day trip is often possible: with a crossing of about 25m and several sailings a day (first 08:30, last 17:30), you can return the same day. Always check the return timetable before you go.

Does the ferry run all year?

Sailings run daily, and frequency can change between the summer and winter seasons. The timetable above shows the latest published departures — confirm with the operator for off-season dates.

Can I take a car on this ferry?

Yes — Cape Lookout National Seashore carries vehicles on this route. Book your car space in advance, especially in peak season, and check the specific sailing for size limits.

Can I take a pet on this ferry?

Most ferry operators allow pets on this route, usually in a carrier, on deck or in designated pet areas or cabins, and registered assistance dogs travel free. Rules and any fees vary by operator and vessel — check with Cape Lookout National Seashore, so declare your pet when booking.

What's the luggage allowance?

Foot passengers can normally bring their own luggage aboard at no extra charge, with racks or a luggage area near the entrance, and there is usually no airline-style weight limit. Oversized or excess items may carry a fee, so check with the operator if you are travelling with bulky baggage.

Timetable valid Apr 15, 2026 – Feb 28, 2027.

Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated July 24, 2026.

Operated by

Ports on this route

Beaufort on the map

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