Driving
Ship
Hatteras to New Bern
Updated: 28 May 2026
This route combines a scenic ferry ride with a drive through the coastal plains. You will travel north on NC-12 to the Ocracoke ferry, then take the Cedar Island ferry to the mainland. From Cedar Island, you follow NC-12 and US-70 West into New Bern. The total travel time is approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on ferry schedules. It is one of the most picturesque ways to traverse the North Carolina coast.
Total Distance: 240 km driving distance; 130 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving with a pre-booked ferry reservation is the fastest way to reach New Bern.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the cheapest, provided you account for the ferry toll.
Compare Hatteras to New Bern Routes
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Direct
|
Direct
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|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3 hours | 2 hours 15 mins |
| Avg Price | $25 in fuel | $15 per vehicle |
| Operator | Personal Vehicle | NC Ferry System |
| Route | NC-12 to US-70 West. | Hatteras-Ocracoke Ferry followed by Ocracoke-Cedar Island Ferry. |
| Tip | Ensure you check ferry departure times before leaving Hatteras. | Reservations are highly recommended for the Ocracoke-Cedar Island ferry. |
Travel Tips
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Ferry ReservationsBook your ferry spot online weeks in advance during summer.
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Arrival TimeArrive at the ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
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DiningPack snacks as food options are limited on the ferry and rural stretches.
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Check SchedulesFerry schedules change seasonally; verify them on the NCDOT website.
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Vehicle PrepEnsure your tires are properly inflated for the sandy coastal roads.
Safety Tips
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Ferry SafetyFollow all crew instructions while boarding and exiting the ferry.
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Coastal WindsBe cautious of high winds on the ferry deck.
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Road ConditionsWatch for sand on the roads near the coast after heavy storms.
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Emergency KitKeep a basic emergency kit in your car for the remote ferry transit areas.
People Also Ask
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Do I need a reservation for the ferry?Yes, reservations are strongly recommended for the Cedar Island route.
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How long is the ferry ride?The Ocracoke-Cedar Island ferry takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
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Is there a bridge?No, you must use the ferry system to cross the sounds.
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What is the cost?The ferry fee is $15 for a standard vehicle.
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Can I take a bus?There is no public bus service connecting Hatteras to New Bern.
Quick Info
- From Hatteras, North Carolina, United States
- To New Bern, North Carolina, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Late spring or early autumn for comfortable ferry deck weather.
Things to Do in New Bern
1
Tryon Palace
Visit the reconstructed colonial capitol of North Carolina. The gardens are particularly beautiful in spring.
2
New Bern Civil War Battlefield
Walk the trails of this historic site. It offers a deep dive into the local history of the conflict.
3
Union Point Park
Relax at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers. It is a perfect spot for a picnic.
4
Birthplace of Pepsi
Visit the store where Caleb Bradham invented Pepsi-Cola. You can still buy a soda at the counter.
Tags
Hatteras to New Bern
Outer Banks to New Bern
NC-12 to US-70
driving to New Bern
coastal NC travel
Hatteras ferry route
Cedar Island ferry
New Bern trip
