The ONLY Ferry authorized by National Park Service to drop off at Cape Lookout Lighthouse and Shackleford Banks.Use our Beaufort online holiday planner to add Island Express Ferry Service and other attractions to your Beaufort vacation plans.
Our ferries will take you to Cape Lookout or to Shackleford Banks. Just a quick jaunt to either island--both part of of the Southern Outer Banks, both have pristine beaches, both have crystal clear waters.
Whichever destination you choose, there is so much to do. Take a picnic and relax, swim or fish. Take your kayak! Go shelling, these are some of the best shelling beaches in North Carolina. You can stay the night, camping under the stars, falling asleep to the sounds of the sea.
On Cape Lookout, visit the lighthouse, Our Diamond Lady--she makes us proud! While there, hop on our Beach Shuttle which will take you to the Point. Our COMBO trip is very popular -- Visit Shackleford Banks and Cape Lookout in one day!
On Shackleford Banks, visit with the Wild Banker Horses, they've been roaming the island for centuries...rumor has it they swam ashore from sinking ships!
Wildlife, history, time to connect with nature... just a short ferry ride away.
Source
Create an itinerary including Island Express Ferry Service
© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Island Express Ferry Service reviews
-
Tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable. I can't wait to go back. I dream of that September day on Cape Lookout. more »
-
This was such a fun experience. Amy and Matt were very informative and entertaining. We saw horses, dolphins and made our way all the way around the island with just enough time to get back. more »
-
Went on a Sunset cruise to look at some horses. Island was pristine and the boat captain was fun and knowledgeable. Great trip. When you get to the island avid hikers can go through the brush but families with kids can enjoy walking around the beach and collecting shells. Both groups are likely to see some horses. Be warned there's a chance you'll get wet on the boat!
-
The staff was awesome! My youngest was terrified to get on the Ferry and every staff member gave him words of encouragement and because of them we were able to get him on the Ferry. Then the staff on the ferry made for a memorable trip with their knowledge of the area, encouraging words, humor, willingness to get everyone the views that we wanted and so much more. On the trip back my son was loving the ride and now begs to come back! We will be back!
Plan your trip to Beaufort
Get a personalized trip
A complete day by day itinerary
based on your preferencesCustomize it
Refine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedulesManage it
Everything in one place.
Everyone on the same page.
Popular things to do in Beaufort
Side trips from Beaufort
Hidden gems in Beaufort
Nearby attractions in Beaufort
Wildlife in Beaufort
Shopping in Beaufort
Trips to Island Express Ferry Service by other users
14 days in North Carolina Coast
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Kill Devil Hills
Hatteras Island
Ocracoke
15 days in North Carolina
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Asheville
Bryson City
Charlotte
2 days in Atlantic Beach
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
Wings Beachwear
Fort Macon State Park
31 days in Atlantic Beach
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Oceanana Pier & Pier House Restaurant
Fort Macon State Park
Hoop Pole Creek Nature Trail
3 days in New Bern
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Onslow Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Topsail Island
Walton's Distillery
14 days in North Carolina Coast
BY A USER FROM SWEDEN
Nags Head
Hatteras Island
Ocracoke