The new passenger-only ferry between Ocracoke and Hatteras is now accepting reservations. The Ocracoke Express service began Monday and has accommodated 1021 passengers in its first three days of operation. Currently the fare for a round-trip ticket is $2, with children 3 and under riding free. There is no additional charge for bicycles. The ferry service is now accepting reservations for travel through June 15. Reservations can be made at ncferry.org or by calling 800-BY-FERRY. There are three departures from each point, with the first departure from Hatteras at 9 am and the first from Ocracoke at 11. The passenger ferry will operate seven-days-a-week through Labor Day weekend.
Passenger-only service was supposed to begin last year but got delayed by boat construction issues. A new boat still isn't available, but the state is leasing a ferry from a New Jersey company for now.