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Shackleford Banks East End to Harkers Island

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Shackleford Banks East End to Harkers Island Ferry

Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026

(c) Map data: OpenStreetMap contributors, via Geoapify

Departs

Shackleford Banks East End

North Carolina

25m
3.2 nm

Arrives

Harkers Island

North Carolina

Operated byCape Lookout National Seashore logoCape Lookout National Seashore
22 sailings listed3.2 nm
View timetableReverse route

At a glance

The Shackleford Banks East End 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

Shackleford Banks East End to Harkers Island ferry timetable

DepartsDurationOperatorRuns
09:1525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
09:4525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
10:1525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
10:4525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
11:1525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
11:4525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
12:0025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
12:1525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
12:4525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
13:1525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
13:3025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
13:4525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
14:1525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
14:4525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
15:0025mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
15:1525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
15:4525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
16:1525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
16:4525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
17:1525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
17:4525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily
18:1525mCape Lookout National SeashoreDaily

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

About the Shackleford Banks East End – Harkers Island crossing

Up to 22 daily sailings connect Shackleford Banks East End with Harkers Island in a crossing of about three nautical miles. Cape Lookout National Seashore operates this passenger-only ferry service. The first departure is scheduled for 09:15 and the last sailing of the day is at 18:15.

The transit takes 25 minutes. Sailings are scheduled every day of the week. This is one of two routes Cape Lookout National Seashore operates out of the Harkers Island port.

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

Shackleford Banks East End

North Carolina

Port guide & all routes

Arrival port

Harkers Island

North Carolina

Port guide & all routes

Frequently asked questions

How often does the ferry run?

22 sailings a day on this route.

Which company runs this ferry?

Operated by Cape Lookout National Seashore.

How do I get back from Harkers Island?

Check the Harkers Island to Shackleford Banks East End ferry for return times.

What time is the first sailing?

First departure is 09:15, last is 18:15.

How long does the crossing take?

About 25m.

Does this ferry cross an international border?

No, it's entirely within United States.

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 Shackleford Banks East End 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

Shackleford Banks East End on the map

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