Is Beaufort near Morehead City?

Yes, they are separated only by the Newport River.

No, there is no train service to Beaufort.

How much is the ferry?

The ferry costs $15 for a standard passenger vehicle.

Are there hotels in Beaufort?

Yes, there are several historic inns and modern hotels.

Is the ferry open year-round?

Yes, but schedules are reduced during the winter months.

Hatteras

Beaufort

Driving Ship

Hatteras to Beaufort

Updated: 28 May 2026

Reaching Beaufort from Hatteras requires a combination of ferry travel and driving. You will take the Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry, followed by the Ocracoke-Cedar Island ferry. Once on the mainland, you drive south on NC-12 and US-70 East to reach the historic town of Beaufort. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours, excluding wait times at ferry terminals. It is a scenic route that highlights the maritime culture of the Crystal Coast.

Total Distance: 225 km driving distance; 120 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving with a confirmed ferry reservation is the fastest method.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own car is the most economical way to make this trip.

Compare Hatteras to Beaufort Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	1 hour 15 mins (post-ferry)	2 hours 15 mins
Avg Price	$20 in fuel	$15 per vehicle
Operator	Personal Vehicle	NC Ferry System
Route	NC-12 to US-70 East.	Hatteras-Ocracoke and Ocracoke-Cedar Island ferries.
Tip	The drive from Cedar Island to Beaufort is very scenic.	Check the NCDOT ferry website for real-time status updates.

Travel Tips

Book Early
Ferry reservations for the Cedar Island route fill up months in advance.
Pack Light
You will be moving your luggage between the car and the ferry deck.
Sun Protection
The sun is intense on the ferry; bring sunscreen and a hat.
Check Weather
High winds can cause ferry cancellations; check the status before leaving.
Local Transport
Beaufort is very walkable, so park your car and explore on foot.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Stay with your vehicle or in designated passenger areas during the crossing.
Water Safety
If kayaking, always wear a life jacket and check tide charts.
Road Hazards
Be alert for wildlife crossing the roads in the Cedar Island area.
Emergency Prep
Keep a charged phone and a physical map for the rural stretches.