United States
Cape Lookout to Harkers Island Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
Departs
Cape Lookout
North Carolina
Arrives
Harkers Island
North Carolina
Cape Lookout National SeashoreAt a glance
The Cape Lookout to Harkers Island ferry takes about 25m, with 22 sailings a day between 09:15 and 18:15. It is operated by Cape Lookout National Seashore.
- First sailing
- 09:15
- Last sailing
- 18:15
- Sailings / day
- 22
- Crossing
- 25m
Cape Lookout to Harkers Island ferry timetable
| Departs | Duration | Operator | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 09:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 10:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 10:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 11:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 11:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 12:00 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 12:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 12:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 13:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 13:30 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 13:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 14:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 14:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 15:00 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 15:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 15:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 16:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 16:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 17:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 17:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 18:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
Times are indicative and may change seasonally. Confirm with the operator before travelling.
About the Cape Lookout – Harkers Island crossing
Cape Lookout and Harkers Island are separated by a 25-minute crossing over approximately 4 nautical miles. This domestic route in North Carolina is operated by the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Service is provided every day, with 22 sailings listed in the current schedule.
As part of the local transport network within the National Seashore, this crossing connects the mainland at Harkers Island with the Cape Lookout Lighthouse area. The first departure is at 09:15 and the final sailing of the day is at 18:15. Harkers Island also has a ferry connection to Shackleford Banks East End.
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
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a passport for this ferry?
No, it's a domestic crossing within United States.
How many sailings run each day?
22 sailings a day, every day.
Who operates the service?
Cape Lookout National Seashore runs this crossing.
How long does the crossing take?
About 25m.
What time is the first sailing?
First departure is 09:15, last is 18:15.
How do I get back from Harkers Island?
Check the Harkers Island to Cape Lookout ferry for return times.
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 09:15, last 18:15), 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.
Continue your journey
Onward sailings from Harkers Island
Plan a multi-leg trip — these ferries depart Harkers Island.
Sharing a stop
Crossings calling at Cape Lookout or Harkers Island
Other ferries that stop at the same quays — handy for connections and nearby travel.
Timetable valid Apr 15, 2026 – Feb 28, 2027.
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated July 26, 2026.
Operated by
Ports on this route
Cape Lookout on the map
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