Challenges Loom for Inner and Outer Banks Ferry Service

Community Anticipation Amid Operational Hurdles

ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — The launch of the Inner and Outer Banks ferry service by Harbor Towns Inc. sparked excitement across the towns of the Inner Banks in May. However, just a few months later, the service is grappling with unexpected challenges that have forced significant operational changes.

Initial Plans and Unexpected Issues

According to Mel Martine, the director of events on the Albemarle Queen, the initial vision included regular ferry trips connecting towns like Columbia, Edenton, Elizabeth City, Hertford, and Plymouth.

“We thought we would be doing a trip out of two towns probably twice a week, so four trips total. That’s kind of what we had hoped for,” she explained, reflecting on their ambitious plans.

A Shift in Strategy

However, as the summer progressed, mechanical issues arose with their prototype hydrofoil catamarans. The company faced a slew of challenges, including engine malfunctions and navigation problems, leading to a need for adjustments in their operational strategy.

“We’ve kind of had to readjust after having engine issues, mechanical issues, navigational issues with the boats. They’ve been heavily certified by the Coast Guard, so they’re extremely safe, but we’ve been having some mechanical issues that have made us kind of shift and redirect what we’re doing,” Martine stated.

Adjustment of Services

The decision to temporarily halt back-and-forth routes between towns was a tough one. “About two months ago, we were having to cancel too many trips and disappointing too many of our customers, and that relationship with our customers is our number one priority,” Martine added.

In its stead, the hydrofoil catamarans are now being used for town events, in-and-out trips, and private rentals, focusing on maintaining community connections, despite the service reduction.

Community Support and Anticipation

Though locals were disappointed by the changes, they expressed understanding of the company’s growing pains. “This is being tried as a new endeavor, so hiccups are to be expected. But we’re still excited for it and fingers crossed that things get back on track soon,” stated Ashley Hodges, Mayor of Hertford.

New Opportunities Amid Challenges

Despite the setbacks, the introduction of the Albemarle Queen, the first paddle wheeler on the Pasquotank River in a century, has been a welcome addition for local residents. “We’ve been doing paddle wheel dinner cruises once or more a month, and they’ve been a big hit,” mentioned Tom Harrison, travel and tourism director for Washington County.

A Learning Experience

As the ferry service continues to navigate its debut season, there is hope for improvement. “The feedback that we get, good and bad, is constructive, and that’s how we grow, and we look forward to reevaluating and coming back even stronger next year,” Martine shared.

The ferry service’s season is set to run through the end of November, with the community eagerly hoping for smoother operations in the future.

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.