Board the ferry from Harkers Island Visitor Center for a short, scenic 15-minute round trip to the historic Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Perfect for families and pet owners, this summer ferry service highlights stunning coastal views and maritime heritage along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
15 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
Cape Lookout Lighthouse, built in 1859, has been a vital navigational point for vessels along the Outer Banks for over 160 years.
Conservation
Cape Lookout National Seashore is protected to preserve natural habitats; visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Island Express Ferry Service LLC
Board the ferry from Harkers Island Visitor Center for a short, scenic 15-minute round trip to the historic Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Perfect for families and pet owners, this summer ferry service highlights stunning coastal views and maritime heritage along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.
Island Express Ferry Service LLC operates scheduled ferry and catamaran services from Beaufort and Harkers Island, North Carolina, providing access to Cape Lookout National Seashore and Shackleford Banks. The company offers a range of trip formats including narrated scenic catamaran cruises, short round-trip ferries, extended visits with beach time, and UTV rentals for on-island exploration. Several departures run every 30 minutes during the summer for short round trips, while extended options include a five-hour Cape Lookout outing and sunset cruises that include one hour ashore at Cape Lookout or Shackleford Banks.
Trips commonly feature opportunities to spot wild Banker horses on Shackleford Banks and dolphins near the waterways. Some routes are narrated to provide local history and natural highlights. Families and pet owners can book options that allow leashed pets on certain short ferry runs. Island Express offers a 4WD, 4-seater Kubota side-by-side UTV rental to explore Cape Lookout’s routes, shelling spots, and fishing access, and notes that this is the site’s available UTV rental option.
Island Express Ferry Service LLC departs from the Town of Beaufort Ferry Gateway and the Harkers Island Visitor Center, linking visitors to iconic destinations such as the Cape Lookout Lighthouse and the Point. The company’s program includes a beach shuttle discount on specific extended trips. All descriptions and schedules are presented to help visitors plan wildlife-focused, scenic, and family-friendly outings from Beaufort and Harkers Island.
Frequent Departures
Every 30 min
Short trips run every 30 minutes in summer
Destinations Served
Cape Lookout, Shackleford
Direct service from Beaufort and Harkers Island
UTV Rentals
4WD Kubota
On-site 4-seater Kubota side-by-side rental
Family Friendly
Pets OK
Leashed pets allowed on select short trips
Reserve narrated tours, sunset cruises, short ferry shuttles, or a Kubota UTV rental to explore the islands — plan wildlife viewing and beach time now.
Bring a Light Jacket
Even on summer days, sea breezes can be cool—dress in layers for comfort.
Leash Your Pet
Pets are welcome on board but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Arrive Early
Ferries depart every 30 minutes, but arriving 10-15 minutes early ensures smooth boarding.
Check Summer Schedule
Service runs frequently in summer; confirm times before your visit to avoid delays.
Light Jacket
To stay comfortable during breezy ferry rides.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning coastal landscapes and the lighthouse.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure on the open deck.
summer
Leash for Pets
Required for bringing pets aboard the ferry.