Ocracoke-Mainland Ferry Routes Ready for Full Spring Schedules Commencing April 9
Boost to Transport and Local Economy Expected
Starting Tuesday, April 9, 2024, both the Cedar Island-Ocracoke and Swan Quarter-Ocracoke ferry routes will be resuming their complete spring schedules, leading to a significant enhancement in the cross-island connectivity. Managed under the N.C. Ferry System, these vital transport links have been critical for the local economy and tourism.
The service will involve the addition of more crossings, which will be implemented as per the following schedules:
- Cedar Island-Ocracoke: The ferries in this route will leave at 7:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 4:30 p.m.
- Ocracoke-Cedar Island: The timings for the ferries on this route are slated for 7:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 4:30 p.m.
- Swan Quarter-Ocracoke: The ferries on this route will depart at 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m.
- Ocracoke-Swan Quarter: These ferry departures will happen at 7 a.m., 10 a.m., and 1:30 p.m.
Reservations and Updates
Given the popularity of these ferry routes, especially during the spring season, passengers are strongly encouraged to make reservations in advance. Reservations can be made online, with the procedure also available over the phone.
For weather updates or information on delays due to mechanical issues, passengers can sign up for real-time text or email notifications on the Ferry Information Notification System. This service is essential in providing passengers with up-to-date information on ferry crossings.
A Welcome Development for Local Businesses
The resumption of full spring schedules on these ferry routes is a fillip for local businesses, particularly those in the tourism and hospitality industry. Visitors journeying across the islands will directly contribute to the local economy, leading to growth and job creation in the hospitality, retail and transportation sectors.
Given the stunning beauty of the North Carolina coastline, these ferry routes are not just a means of transport but are also a popular tourist attraction in themselves. As the ferries criss-cross the scenic waters, visitors are treated to breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape, which include pristine beaches and beautiful wildlife.
With the full spring schedules coming into effect, both locals and visitors alike can look forward to better connectivity and a boost to the tourism economy on the islands. It is indeed a notable development in the wake of the upcoming bustling spring season.
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
