Found on the east side of the Cape Fear River, Bald Head Island is the perfect destination for anyone looking to leave the stress of life behind. However, unlike some islands, no bridge connects it to the mainland. This means the only way to reach your laid-back escape is by boat. There are two main ways you can cross the open water: by ferry and private vessel. To help you decide how to get to Bald Head Island, the team at Bald Head Island Services has broken down the different modes of transportation.
What to Know About the Bald Head Island Ferry
Perhaps the most common way to reach Bald Head Island is via ferry. The passenger-only vessel departs from the Deep Point Marina in Southport. The ride is only about 20 minutes long, and departure times vary depending on the season. Parking is available at the marina for a daily fee.
You can now reserve your spot on the ferry up to two hours before the scheduled departure. General boarding tickets are still available for purchase at the ticket windows. To make boarding easier, fill out your luggage tags before you arrive. Once you arrive on Bald Head Island, an outfitter will help you collect your luggage and direct you to the proper tram.
Captain Your Own Journey
Another option that not everyone may know about is getting to the Bald Head Island marina via your own boat. Located near buoy #13A at the Cape Fear River, the marina is accessible from the Cape Fear River, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Intracoastal Waterway. Because this is a full-service marina, you’ll have access to boating supplies like gas and diesel fuel.
Slips can accommodate boats up to 100 feet long, and there are electric hookups. To reserve a slip, email dockmaster@bhiisland.com, call 910-457-7380, or use VHF Channel 16.
Plan Your Trip to Bald Head Island
Figuring out how to get to Bald Head Island is only one part of planning your vacation. You also need to reserve a vacation rental from Bald Head Island Services. Our locally-owned and operated company is committed to helping vacationers have the best stay possible.
This starts with helping you find your perfect Bald Head Island vacation rental. Our inventory features some of the best vacation homes this North Carolina island has to offer. Our help doesn’t stop once you book your home base. We are available via phone or email to help you with whatever needs may arise, from dead golf cart batteries to recommendations for dinner. To learn more about how we can help make your Bald Head Island vacation the best it can be, call 910-363-4955.
Whether planning a summer getaway with the whole family or a romantic trip for two, Bald Head Island is the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy some R&R. Traveling to this coastal town gives you the ideal opportunity to leave the stress of life behind and make unforgettable memories with those closest to you. After booking your rental from Bald Head Island Services, there’s another important piece of your getaway to reserve: your spot on the Bald Head Island Ferry.
How to Catch the Ferry to Bald Head Island
One of the most unique things about Bald Head Island is the primary source of transportation are golf carts and bikes. Because of this, the ferry is a passenger-only vessel. The schedule depends on the season, as departure times are different in the summer and winter. Leaving the mainland from Deep Point Marina in Southport, the journey is only about 20 minutes. You can leave your car at the marina for a daily fee.
The ferry is filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so we highly recommend getting to the marina early. When you reach the departure point, you’ll drop off your luggage before boarding the ferry. Your bags must have a tag with your name, contact information, and where you’re staying on Bald Head Island. Make your drop-off a breeze by printing and filling out tags beforehand.
How to Get to Your Rental
Once you dock on Bald Head Island, you’ll go to a tram that’ll take you to your rental. While the tram ride is included in your ferry ticket, a tram reservation does not guarantee a spot on the ferry, another reason to get there early. The outfitters on the island will direct you to your luggage and help you get on the correct tram. Reservations for the tram can be made at least an hour ahead of time and three hours in advance for pickup when leaving Bald Head Island.
For more information about the ferry or help to answer any questions you may have, call 910-457-5003.
Reserve Your Dream Bald Head Island Home
After making the quick journey on the Bald Head Island ferry, let the fun begin! Spend your days exploring all the adventures that await you and your nights resting up in your Bald Head Island Services rental.
Our inventory of phenomenal Bald Head Island rentals includes homes in various sizes and styles. Offering such a range of vacation rentals allows us to host groups large and small. Browse our rentals online to find your dream home away from home. For help reserving your rental or to learn more about booking your escape, call 910-363-4955.