Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry
A scenic and affordable car ferry connecting Southport and Fort Fisher, offering stunning river views and saving travel time.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More frequent departures
Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry
Best Time
More frequent departures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic and affordable car ferry connecting Southport and Fort Fisher, offering stunning river views and saving travel time.
"The best $7 we've ever spent... just winging it."
🎯 Affordable Adventure
Only $7 per vehicle! It's a budget-friendly way to travel and enjoy coastal views.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Travel
Leashed pets are welcome aboard, making it easy to bring your furry companions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic River Crossing
Cape Fear River
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Cape Fear River, spot dolphins, and feel the salty breeze on this quick, enjoyable ride.
Vehicle and Pet Friendly
Ferry Deck
Bring your car and your furry friends! Pets are allowed on leash, making it easy to explore both Southport and Fort Fisher with your whole family.
Time-Saving Shortcut
Southport to Fort Fisher
Slash your travel time significantly compared to driving around, making day trips to attractions like the Fort Fisher Aquarium much more feasible.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Budget-Friendly Coastal Crossing
Ferry Fun for Everyone
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Adventure
Only $7 per vehicle! It's a budget-friendly way to travel and enjoy coastal views.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Travel
Leashed pets are welcome aboard, making it easy to bring your furry companions.
🚶♀️ Explore the Deck
You can get out of your car to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the sea breeze.
📸 Capture the Views
Keep your camera ready for potential dolphin sightings and scenic coastal landscapes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Adventure
Only $7 per vehicle! It's a budget-friendly way to travel and enjoy coastal views.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Travel
Leashed pets are welcome aboard, making it easy to bring your furry companions.
🚶♀️ Explore the Deck
You can get out of your car to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the sea breeze.
📸 Capture the Views
Keep your camera ready for potential dolphin sightings and scenic coastal landscapes.
⏰ Check Schedule
Departure times vary seasonally; check the latest ferry schedule before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers consistently praise the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry for its affordability, convenience, and scenic beauty. The $7 vehicle fare is a major highlight, offering a budget-friendly way to cut travel time significantly. Many enjoy the experience of walking on deck, spotting wildlife like dolphins, and the overall relaxed atmosphere. The ferry is seen as a fun, efficient, and memorable part of a coastal North Carolina visit.
"Taking the ferry is an experience I consistently appreciate, with every encounter being overwhelmingly positive. The staff demonstrates exceptional friendliness and a strong work ethic. This ferry ride provides a budget-friendly option for family outings, and we have had the thrilling experience of observing dolphins at sunset, resulting in lasting memories for my family and me."
Brittanie McRae
"Great bang for your buck. Only $7 for your vehicle. Very little wait. Quick trip. Fun way to get to the aquarium and enjoy a day trip in the Fort Fisher area."
Joanne Hesley
"The Fort Fisher Ferry is honestly such a cool experience and way better than just driving the whole way around. It’s super affordable, the crew is organized, and the whole process of getting on and off the ferry was way smoother than I expected. You just roll up, line up, and before you know it you’re cruising across the water.
The ride itself is really chill. Once the cars are parked, you can get out and walk around the deck, take in the views, and just enjoy being out on the water. It’s not some super long ride, but it’s the perfect amount of time to relax, snap some pics, and feel like you’re doing something a little different from your average road trip.
The views are awesome—water all around, seabirds flying by, and if you’re lucky you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins. The breeze feels amazing, especially if you’ve been stuck in a car for a while. It honestly makes the travel part of your trip feel like part of the adventure instead of just something to get through.
Another plus is how much time it saves. Instead of sitting in traffic or adding miles to your drive, you just hop on the ferry and cut straight across. It feels way less stressful and way more fun.
Overall, the Fort Fisher Ferry is one of those things that makes your trip feel a little special. It’s cheap, easy, and just a fun way to travel. Definitely worth doing if you’re anywhere near the area."
Brian Slawson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry is your direct route! It departs from Southport and travels across the Cape Fear River to Fort Fisher. This ferry allows you to drive your vehicle directly onto the boat, saving you a significant amount of driving time compared to the land route. +1
Taking the ferry cuts down an hour-plus drive to a scenic 30-45 minute trip across the river. This makes day trips much more efficient and enjoyable.
Yes, the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry connects Carolina Beach/Fort Fisher to Southport. You can catch the ferry from the Fort Fisher side, which is easily accessible from Carolina Beach. +1
Departure times vary depending on the season. During the summer, ferries typically leave about every 45 minutes. It's always best to check the latest ferry schedule online before your trip.
Absolutely! The Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry is a car ferry, meaning you can drive your vehicle directly onto the boat. This is a major convenience for travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ferry is incredibly affordable! It costs only $7 per vehicle, making it a fantastic value for families and budget travelers.
No reservations are needed for the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry. You simply drive up, line up, and pay the fare upon boarding.
The ferry operates year-round, but hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official ferry schedule for the most up-to-date operating times.
While specific protocols can change, in the past, travelers were able to freely get in and out of their vehicles. It's advisable to check the latest guidelines from the ferry operator if you have concerns.
The ferry is generally accessible, with space to exit vehicles and walk around the deck. Specific accessibility needs can be addressed by contacting the ferry service directly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can exit your vehicle to walk around the deck, enjoy the stunning views of the Cape Fear River, feel the ocean breeze, and potentially spot dolphins or seabirds. It's a relaxing part of the journey.
Yes, pets are allowed on the ferry! They must be kept on a leash or remain inside your vehicle during the crossing.
From the ferry, you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, spot shrimp boats, and potentially see Old Baldy and Oak Island lighthouses. Keep an eye out for dolphins!
The ferry ride typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on conditions. It's a short and sweet journey across the water.
Southport offers charming shops, restaurants, and historic sites. It's a great place for a day trip, with options for coffee, breakfast, and exploring the town.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning coastal landscapes, the ferry itself, and any wildlife like dolphins or seabirds. The open deck provides great vantage points for unique shots.
Yes, you can exit your vehicle and walk around the deck, making it easy to find good angles for photography without being confined to your car.
Sunset offers beautiful lighting and increased chances of seeing dolphins, making it a prime time for photography. Mid-morning can also provide good light with fewer crowds.
Drone usage is typically restricted over waterways and near ferry operations for safety reasons. It's best to check specific regulations before flying a drone.
You can capture picturesque views of Southport's waterfront as you approach the town, offering a unique perspective of the charming coastal community.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's also a great way to connect attractions. You can easily ferry over to Fort Fisher to visit the aquarium or explore the historic site, then spend the afternoon in Southport. The short travel time means less 'are we there yet?' and more time for fun. Remember to keep an eye on little ones on the open deck.
💰 Budget Travelers
This ferry offers a scenic and enjoyable experience without breaking the bank. It provides a unique way to travel between two popular coastal areas, making it an efficient and cost-effective choice for exploring the region.
🐾 Pet Owners
It's a stress-free way to travel with pets, allowing them to experience the coastal environment alongside you. Just ensure they are comfortable with the ferry environment and any potential noises or movement.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry
The ferry is designed to carry vehicles, making it incredibly convenient for those traveling with cars. The journey across the Cape Fear River takes approximately 30-45 minutes, a significant reduction compared to the over-an-hour drive around the river. This efficiency makes it an ideal option for day trips, allowing visitors to maximize their time exploring attractions on either side of the river.
Beyond its practical function, the ferry offers a unique travel experience. Passengers can exit their vehicles to walk on the deck, feel the sea breeze, and take in the expansive water views. It's common for travelers to spot dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life during the crossing, adding an element of wildlife viewing to the trip. The affordability, at just $7 per vehicle, further enhances its appeal as a budget-friendly adventure.
Making the Most of Your Ferry Trip
For those traveling with pets, the ferry is a welcome option. Dogs are permitted as long as they are leashed or kept securely in your vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey for all passengers. This pet-friendly policy makes it easier for families to include their furry members in their coastal explorations.
When planning your trip, it's wise to check the ferry schedule as departure times can vary seasonally. While reservations aren't typically required, knowing the schedule helps in planning your day effectively, especially during peak summer months when departures are more frequent. The ferry's convenience and scenic route make it a highly recommended activity for anyone visiting the Southport or Fort Fisher areas.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit