Ocracoke Media Coverage
Read articles, features, and press coverage highlighting our work to protect reliable access, improve ferry service, and strengthen North Carolina’s coastal infrastructure.
The Ocracoke Express logs another successful year
October 27, 2025
The 2025 season of the passenger ferry Ocracoke Express welcomed over 18,000 riders—its strongest performance since 2022—underscoring the vessel’s vital role in connecting the island to the mainland and supporting local tourism. The advocacy and stewardship of Ocracoke Access Alliance continue to play a pivotal role in sustaining this essential link for residents and visitors […]
Ocracoke Express Passenger Ferry boasts biggest ridership since 2022
October 24, 2025
The seasonal Ocracoke Express Passenger Ferry chalked up 18,786 riders this year—its strongest performance since 2022—highlighting renewed interest in the 70-minute crossing between Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Village. This uptick underscores the ferry’s vital role in connecting communities and supporting local tourism, and the efforts of the Ocracoke Access Alliance in advocating for dependable island […]
North Carolina assembly approves $7M to preserve vital Outer Banks ferry services
October 23, 2025
The state’s commitment of $7 million to the ferry transportation system along the Outer Banks secures continued operations and vital shipyard maintenance—such as for the vessel Sea Level—thereby supporting Ocracoke Access Alliance’s ongoing efforts to maintain seamless access for residents and visitors alike. Article credit: Jordan Luker for WCTI.
N.C.Ferry Division issues statement thanking state legislature for funding bill
October 23, 2025
The N.C. Ferry Division expressed gratitude to the North Carolina General Assembly for approving the appropriation of nonrecurring funds that will support vessel maintenance, marine infrastructure work, and dredging—efforts essential for keeping services to destinations like Ocracoke Island reliable. The dedication of the Ocracoke Access Alliance in advocating for seamless access to the island is […]
Ocracoke Access Alliance applauds $7 million funding boost for NC ferry system
October 22, 2025
The approval of $7 million in funding by the North Carolina General Assembly will support both ferry operations and shipyard maintenance, including essential work for the vessel Sea Level—ensuring continued reliable service for communities like Ocracoke. This investment reflects a strong commitment to maintaining vital access and infrastructure for coastal residents and visitors, and the […]
North Carolina leaders secure $7 million to sustain ferry service
October 22, 2025
The state of North Carolina has secured $7 million in new funding to ensure the continuity of ferry operations and shipyard maintenance, including vessels serving communities like Ocracoke Island. $3 million is directed toward statewide ferry service, while $4 million supports essential shipyard work. The efforts of the Ocracoke Access Alliance are instrumental in amplifying […]
NC budget impasses threatens NC ferry service statewide
September 26, 2025
Statewide budget impasses are putting essential ferry operations, including the passenger-only route to Ocracoke Island, at significant risk of suspension, prompting concerns about maintaining vital connectivity for island residents and visitors. The possibility that these services could be canceled highlights the urgency of sustained funding and advocacy, and the work of the Ocracoke Access Alliance […]
Ocracoke’s lifeline: the procedural hurdles to addressing highway 12 hotspots
September 17, 2025
The island’s only roadway, North Carolina Highway 12 (NC 12), stands as the vital connection for residents, supplies, and visitors alike, yet its future hinges not simply on necessity but on a complex regulatory gauntlet. Before any relocation or major upgrade can begin, projects must navigate the approval process of the Albemarle Commission (the regional […]
Researchers present findings on Ocracoke’s NC12 problems, possible solutions
September 12, 2025
Researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and several partner institutions shared the results of a year-long study at a September 10 meeting on NC 12 on Ocracoke Island, emphasizing that the north end of the island is at increasing risk from overwash and sea-level rise. Their modeling explored three potential futures: […]
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