Hop on the Ft. Fisher ferry for a quick roundtrip picnic or leisurely afternoon exploring Southport.
Looking for a little adventure off the beach this vacation? At the far end of Pleasure Island, you will find the Ft. Fisher ferry terminal. With a little planning, you can create a memorable afternoon riding the ferry across the water. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your ferry excursion.
How do I get to the Ft. Fisher ferry?
To reach the Ft. Fisher ferry terminal you’ll need to drive south on the island, past Kure Beach, and down through Ft. Fisher. Where the road forks to the left for the aquarium, you need to continue on straight. The ferry terminal will be on your right as you approach the end of the island.
Where does the Ft. Fisher ferry go?
Once you arrive at the terminal, you don’t have to worry about complicated ferry routes or choosing the right boat. The Ft. Fisher ferry has one destination, the historic southern city of Southport, North Carolina. From Southport, you can hop over to Deep Point Marina if you wish to continue on to Bald Head Island.
When does the ferry leave?
The Ft. Fisher to Southport ferry route operates on a different schedule during the week than on the weekend. Departure times also switch between summer, fall, and winter schedules. During the summer weekdays (April 5 – September 12), the ferry operates every 1.5 hours from 6:15 am to 7 pm. It takes 35 minutes to cross the water on the ferryboat. The ferry runs less frequently on weekends, and schedules are subject to weather conditions. Check the state ferry schedule to accurately plan your departure time.
It’s important to arrive early for your scheduled departure. Ferry terminal employees will direct you to park in lines facing the water in anticipation of boarding. Once parked, you can exit your vehicle and use the restroom, toss a frisbee in the grass, or grab a snack from the vending machines. On busy summer days, the line of cars waiting for the ferry can exceed the boat’s capacity. Be prepared to wait for the next boat if you arrive too late to secure a spot on your desired departure.
How much does it cost to ride the ferry?
The cost to ride the Ft. Fisher ferry varies depending on your mode of transportation, and all prices are one-way. A ferry ticket for a family car is $7. It costs $2 to ride your bicycle onto the ferry and $3 to take a golf cart. If you decide to ride your bicycle, note that the ferry terminal is 2 miles from the shops and restaurants in downtown Southport.
If your family includes toddlers or small children that just want to ride the boat, you can park for free at the ferry terminal and walk onto the ferry for $1 per person. Children under age 5 ride for free. Walking onto the ferry is a great, inexpensive way to spend a few hours away from the beach. Hop on the ferryboat at Ft. Fisher, bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at the ferry terminal in Southport, then hop back on the boat to Ft. Fisher. There are picnic tables at both the Ft. Fisher and Southport ferry terminals.
What can I do on the ferry?
The Ft. Fisher ferry has indoor and outdoor seating in the upper portion of the boat. Passengers can also stand around the parking area of the boat including along the bow and stern of the boat. There are restrooms available onboard but no concessions for sale. Relax, watch the waves, check out the local seabirds, and, before you know it, you’ll be pulling into Southport.
Enjoy your day trip to Southport!
If your vacation schedule allows for it, I highly recommend taking the ferry over to Southport. A beautiful little town, Southport has restaurants, shops, and beautiful views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Arrive early to allow plenty of time to buy your ticket and lineup for the ferry loading. Whether you explore the top attractions in Southport or simple ride the ferry out and back, the Ft. Fisher ferry is an affordable way to get out on the water and take in the sights.
Looking for more vacation activities off the sand? Check out the top indoor activities in Carolina Beach and try something fun indoors this week.
