United States
Harkers Island to Shackleford Banks East End Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
Departs
Harkers Island
North Carolina
Arrives
Shackleford Banks East End
North Carolina
Cape Lookout National SeashoreAt a glance
The Harkers Island to Shackleford Banks East End ferry takes about 25m, with 23 sailings a day between 08:15 and 17:45. It is operated by Cape Lookout National Seashore.
- First sailing
- 08:15
- Last sailing
- 17:45
- Sailings / day
- 23
- Crossing
- 25m
Harkers Island to Shackleford Banks East End ferry timetable
| Departs | Duration | Operator | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 08:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 09:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 09:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 10:00 | 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 |
| 11:30 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 11:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 12:15 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 12:45 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 13:00 | 25m | Cape Lookout National Seashore | Daily |
| 13:15 | 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 |
| 15:15 | 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 |
Times are indicative and may change seasonally. Confirm with the operator before travelling.
About the Harkers Island – Shackleford Banks East End crossing
This domestic ferry connects with the Cape Lookout service at Harkers Island, creating a two-part trip within the Cape Lookout National Seashore. The crossing between Harkers Island and the east end of Shackleford Banks takes 25 minutes to cover the three nautical miles. Cape Lookout National Seashore operates this passenger-only route.
There are 23 scheduled sailings every day of the week. The first departure is at 08:15 and the final return leaves at 17:45.
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
How long does the crossing take?
About 25m.
When's the last ferry of the day?
The last sailing leaves at 17:45.
How often does the ferry run?
23 sailings a day on this route.
Do I need a passport for this ferry?
No, it's a domestic crossing within United States.
Is a return sailing available?
Yes — see the return route for its schedule.
Who runs this ferry crossing?
Cape Lookout National Seashore.
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 08:15, last 17:45), 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.
Same departure port
More ferries from Harkers Island
Other crossings departing Harkers Island.
Sharing a stop
Crossings calling at Harkers Island or Shackleford Banks East End
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
Harkers Island on the map
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