The Fort Fisher Aquarium was established in 1976 as part of the North Carolina Aquarium system, which was created to promote marine education and conservation in the state. Located on US 421 approximately 15 miles south of Wilmington, just beyond Kure Beach. It features a Birding Deck, Memorial Garden, and a Pond Overlook. 10 Suitcases. Stand on the fan-tail and hold one out above your head they fly in and snap it up. SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) The air is turning cooler and the kids are back in school, and that means it's time for the NC Department of Transportation's Southport-Fort Fisher routes to make . WiFi on board. To view the ferry schedule or information regarding parking, ferry tickets, luggage . These outdoor exhibits are created to reduce the CO2 footprint designed to run the aquarium, the conservation, and the daily operations required to keep it going. Like we mentioned above, we recommend taking the 35-minute ferry from Southport to Fort Fisher. When youre ready to start planning your trip, wed love to help you find the perfect home-away-from-home on OKI for you and your family! Enjoy Oak Island Christmas Events and Activities this Winter [2022], NC Fourth of July Festival & Fireworks on Oak Island. Relaxing, accommodating, and altogether a fantastic way to explore the wide open expanse of the Cape Fear River, a quick trip on the Southport / Fort Fisher Ferry is sure to become a favorite memory of any Carolina Beach, Kure Beach or Fort Fisher vacation. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. Are there motels near the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? They say that visitors should expect to spend about 2 hours touring the entire facility, not including digging in the outdoor fossil pit.. Located in New Hanover County 18 miles south of Wilmington, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is the only park in the system that allows four-wheel-drive beach access, making it popular for surf fishing. Wonder at baby sea turtles. The Southport / Fort Fisher ferry is one of seven North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) ferries that service the slightly-inland communities and barrier islands of the state. Visitors should not feed seagulls off the back of the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry. From late September until the end of March, the ferry has approximately 14 crossings throughout the day, leaving each terminal every 45 minutes or so, and in the summer season from April until shortly after Labor Day, the runs increase slightly to around 16 crossings per day. To get a better lay of the land (or ocean), you can find amap of the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisheron their website. Can you take pets on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Purchase tickets online or by calling 1-800-BY-FERRY. A less congested way to tour the coastline, and an often welcome break out of the car for long distance travelers, the Southport / Fort Fisher Ferry is easily the most scenic way to reach the beach. JavaScript Required JavaScript must be enabled to use some features of this site. We cant wait to welcome you to OKI! Fares are inexpensive and range from ~$1 - $15. How soon before departure does the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry board? Cyclists are allowed on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry for a small fee of about $2. The Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry is less than a mile away from the Fort Fisher State Park beaches. 430 North Salisbury Street Did you know that the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is ranked among. How much is the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Map it. Are there restrooms on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? The Fort Fisher terminal of the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry route is roughly .75 miles away from the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Is there internet access on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Where are the docks for the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Additionally, please remember that Fort Fisher Aquarium follows the local COVID regulations, and . Gratuities. When is the best time of day to go on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? However, if you are on vacation on Oak Island, your best bet is to buy a one-time ticket. The Southport terminal is nicely close to the downtown area, which is known for its historic landmarks, restaurants, antique stores and shopping, and its small-town, coastal atmosphere. What restaurants are near Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry? Cameras are a must for this adventure, and the ferries provide ample space along the outdoors decks to enjoy the views, as well an expansive climate controlled passenger lounge on the top level of the ship to enjoy a bird's eye vista in comfort. Southport and Fort Fisher are actually the southernmost terminals of the ferry routes, and provide a valuable service to both Carolina Beach residents and visitors alike. By mail or drop off: 1000 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach, NC 28449. This Oak Island ferry departs right down the road from Deep Point Marina and takes you towards Carolina and Kure beaches. Ferry passengers will also enjoy a fantastic treat around sunset, when the Cape Fear River lights up in hues of orange, pink and purple, and passing schools of fish and flocks of migrating birds add to the inspiring natural scene. Albino alligators usually do better in protected areas as they often dont survive well in the wild. A large percentage of guests are previous guests. Additionally, the conservatory made room in 2019 for Luna. Visitors can drive from Southport to Fort Fisher instead of taking the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry. Arrive early with the sunrise, or catch an evening sunset, and make your trip to or from Pleasure Island an undisputed part of the fun and overall coastal experience. Southport. Signing up to our monthly newsletteris the best way to find out when we post new guides and stay in the know with everything to do near OKI! Additionally, the conservatory made room in 2019 for Luna,a rare albino alligator. All exhibits are also fully accessible for everyone, and the two floors have elevators and stairs. Near the Fort Fisher Terminal, there are a number of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals in the towns of Kure Beach and Carolina Beach. The first stop in the self-guided tour takes you to the Cape Fear Conservatory, which houses hundreds of the species of theCape Fear River! For nearly 20 years, the Victory Beach team has worked tirelessly to establish a network of top-of-the-line rental properties for Cape Fear visitors to enjoy. It accommodates the Open Oceans Gallery, home to many marine animals, such as jellyfish, octopus, corals, and two ledges called the Sharktooth Ledge and Cape Fear Ledge. The Southport - Fort Fisher Ferries are designed as vehicular ferries, so licensed vehicles of all sizes that are legal on the highway are permitted to board. Depending on the time of year, the early morning and evening crossings are traditionally the less crowded trips onboard the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry. Guides teach participants the "drill" with wooden rifles. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful . Deep Point Marina is located at 1301 Ferry Road, Southport, NC, just before the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry Landing. 9.4/5 (1,002 reviews) "Beautiful homes/inns. Instead, they are hosting plenty ofvirtual programsfit for the entire family. Ferry passengers will also enjoy a fantastic treat around sunset, when the Cape Fear River lights up in hues of orange, pink and purple, and passing schools of fish and flocks of migrating birds add to the inspiring natural scene. From Southport, take the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry. What happens if you miss the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? The Southport - Fort Fisher route ferries do have climate controlled passenger lounges on the second level of the vessels. See more about fares here. Even pets are allowed provided they are leashed, however, visitors should note there is no smoking or alcohol allowed anywhere on board. esp important on the way back b/c otherwise you'd be taking a long roundabout drive back. Definitely worth a trip across the Cape Fear River if you ask us. Vehicle and/or Combination Less Than 20 Feet, Vehicle and/or Combination 20 to 40 Feet, Vehicle and/or Combination 40 to 65 Feet, Vehicle and/or Combination Less Than 20 Feet. How far is the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry from downtown Southport? Where is the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? The number of vehicles that can fit on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry depends on vehicle type and the individual ferry, but roughly 30-40 vehicles can fit on each vessel. Kure Beach offers a more residential feel with its fishing pier, intimate restaurants and family favorite, North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.More water fun awaits, too. Look an albino alligator in the eye. Can you ride a bike on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Fares are inexpensive and range from ~$1 - $15. Can you feed seagulls off the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Suite 2050 The Southport terminal is located on the appropriately named Ferry Road, which is slightly north of the historic downtown Southport area. To book GROUPS, Charters, business and commercial vehicles & trucks and all trailers, please call (860) 442-0165 x302. Raleigh, NC 27699-1501. Visitors should not feed seagulls off the back of the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry. There are no vending machines or drinks available onboard the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry, however there is a water fountain for passengers. Per the NCDOT, the routes will begin running on the following schedule: learn about how to get there and getting tickets. Bald Head Ferry. Dobbs Building The Carolina Beach State Park and Wilmington are both right around the corner for those who want to make a day trip out of it! Pets are allowed but must be leashed or remain in your vehicle at all times. These payment methods, as well as cash, are accepted at terminal ticket booths. What attractions are near Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry? from . Can you drink alcoholic beverages on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Only $7.00 per car each way. Tickets are also available at each ferry terminal's ticket booth outside the terminal entrance. Is there a passenger lounge on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Secure websites use HTTPS certificates. All visitors should be in their vehicles and ready to board roughly 15 minutes before their ferry is slated to depart. 919-715-7000. What are the attractions near the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? The current price for a one-time ticket is as follows: Weve heard that special discounts are available for groups of 10 or more, as well as military personnel and veterans. Relaxing, accommodating, and altogether a fantastic way to explore the wide open expanse of the Cape Fear River, a quick trip on the Southport / Fort Fisher Ferry is sure to become a favorite memory of any Carolina Beach, Kure Beach or Fort Fisher vacation. For ferry schedule, call 910-457-6942 or toll free at 1-800-BYFERRY. 4620 Mail Service Center The Southport - Fort Fisher Ferries are designed as vehicular ferries, so licensed vehicles of all sizes that are legal on the highway are permitted to board. . How many vehicles can the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry carry? Depending on the time of year, the early morning and evening crossings are traditionally the less crowded trips onboard the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry. 1-877-368-4968). Please fill out, sign and return to David McCall at the Ferry Office on Fishers. 261 Trumbull Dr. The Southport terminal of the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry route is approximately two miles away from the heart of downtown Southport. The Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry does not accept reservations. fiferry2022-11-28T13:42:52-05:00November 25th, 2022|Comments Off on Elizabeth Airfield (OB8) By The Numbers, Elizabeth Field was dedicated on June 11, 1939, PO Box 607 , and please dont hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have. Near the Fort Fisher Terminal, there are a number of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals in the towns of Kure Beach and Carolina Beach. While you are across the pond, you can enjoy many of the other activities that Fort Fisher and Wilmington have to offer! There are public restrooms on board the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry, which are located on the main deck. What companies run services between Fort Fisher, NC, USA and Southport, NC, USA? Warm weather months bring loggerhead sea turtles to nest along the park's sandy shores. Does the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry operate year-round? Learn more about things to do and places to stay in Southport NC. 60 minutes waiting time after flight arrival. However, due to COVID, most of the events are canceled at the moment. 1501 Mail Service Center
Tickets cost $1 and the journey takes 35 min. The total crossing time for the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry is approximately 35 minutes each way. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Theres also a fabulous gift shop filled with coastal fun for those who love souvenirs toys, books, puzzles, stuffed animals, clothes, and much more. There is no charge for children ages two and younger. You can browse through our exclusive collection ofvacation homes on Oak Island, and please dont hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have. You can enter the aquariums address in your GPS to get there. Essentially, the river views are unparalleled in this part of southern NC, and the short 35 minute trip will illuminate this region of the coastline and present an entirely new perspective of the Cape Fear River for infrequent visitors and longtime residents alike. The fare to cross the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry is dependent on vehicle type. How many vehicles can the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry carry? Can you walk onboard the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Until the last few months of the Civil War, Fort Fisher kept North Carolina's port of Wilmington open to blockade-runners supplying necessary goods to Confederate armies inland. For further assistance, call us at
Are there vending machines or food available on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Undoubtedly one of the best deals in town is the Southport-Fort Fisher ferry ride. From late September until the end of March, the ferry has approximately 14 crossings throughout the day . Definitely worth a trip across the Cape Fear River if you ask us. You'll continue for another half mile before arriving at the entrance to Deep Point Marina. The North Carolina Military History Museum is only about a 7-minute drive from the aquarium as well. A stay with Victory Beach Vacations is an annual pilgrimage for most. Start making your memories today! For wedding inquiries, please visit our Special Event Rentals page. You can make vehicle reservations to save a spot only on our Anacortes/San Juan Islands/Sidney, British Columbia and . A new exhibit also houses a family of otters rescued recently and are now safe in the conservation. We had to wait about 20 minutes before the ferry was scheduled to leave and was only about 30 minutes to reach Fort Fisher which left us a short ride to where we were staying. I call the number its constantly busy does anyone know if it is open? You can. The last crossing from the Fort Fisher terminal is 7 p.m. How early does the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry start running? Tram service to your island destination may be provided based on ticket type and availability. Owners should note that the decks can get hot for dogs paws in the summertime, and should use caution as needed. Directions to the Ferry. Cameras are a must for this adventure, and the ferries provide ample space along the outdoors decks to enjoy the views, as well an expansive climate controlled passenger lounge on the top level of the ship to enjoy a bird's eye vista in comfort. Pha nam gip huyn Thch H v . There are no vending machines or drinks available onboard the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry, however there is a water fountain for passengers. Many properties include pools and hot tubs as well, perfect for outdoor entertaining, and many are dog friendly. If youve worked up an appetite during your visit, youll find a variety of food and drink options available daily from March to November at SharkBites Snack Bar! Please note that there are no bike racks on board the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry. The N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher is one of only 230 accredited members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a non-profit organization dedicated to the highest standards in the areas of conservation, animal welfare, education, science and recreation. Submit Completed Application: By email: fort.fisher@ncparks.gov. Can you feed seagulls off the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Even pets are allowed provided they are leashed, however, visitors should note there is no smoking or alcohol allowed anywhere on board. reserve tickets. We cant wait to welcome you to OKI! The park is open during all other holidays. Theres an ocean of adventures waiting for visitors at the Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Its almost like its their personal vacation home. Even before guests arrive at their vacation destination, the Victory Beach Vacations website greets them with a live beach cam and exquisite aerial footage of both Carolina and Kure Beaches. For DMV questions, call us at
Delight in a family of otters playing in a waterfall. You'll need at least a bicycle on the Southport side since it's about 2 miles from downtown. Featuring a full range of entertainment options including a water park, mini golf course, go karts, arcade, and so much more, veritably every visitor under the sun can enjoy an active excursion or just a day of splashing around at this all-encompassing amusement center. The fare to cross the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry is dependent on vehicle type. Hours Tuesday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Sunday, Monday, and most major holidays Admission is free. This 39 acre site is home to three of the Northern Outer Banks' biggest attractions, the Whalehead in Historic Corolla, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education, as well as plenty of gorgeous soundfront grounds that are wide open for visitors to explore. The ferry can be accessed in Southport via route 211, and by Fort Fisher by basically following 421 south until it ends. The Southport / Fort Fisher ferry is one of seven North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) ferries that service the slightly-inland communities and barrier islands of the state. Grace Silipigni. When Ft. Fisher fell after a massive Federal amphibious assault on January 15, 1865, its defeat helped seal the fate of the Confederacy. more. We think this topic deserves its own post since there are so many things to do in these areas. Reservations are not required, however a small fee applies to both passengers and vehicles wishing to board. The Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry is managed by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Ferry System, and is one of seven ferries that the NCDOT manages in the state. 2023 Brunswick County, NC Tourism Development Authority. Arrive early with the sunrise, or catch an evening sunset, and make your trip to or from Pleasure Island an undisputed part of the fun and overall coastal experience. The Fort Fisher terminal of the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry is next to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, as well as the Fort Fisher State Park and Historic Site, and Zekes Island Reserve. Most events are free, though some may require pre-registration. Pedestrians are welcome on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry for a small fee in the $1 dollar range. Visitors should not exit the vehicle until the ferry has left the docks, and has started the crossing. FortFisher Our mailing address is 1501 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-1501. How far is the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry from the Fort Fisher State Park beaches? Find the best time to take a vehicle on a ferry. We drove down to Southport which took us about an hour going through Wilmington but on the way back we took the ferry. Raleigh, NC 27699-4620, An official website of the State of North Carolina. For full details visit the website listed below. In the early morning hours and evenings, the ferry runs roughly every 90 minutes. Visitor Center A ten-minute audiovisual program tells the story of Fort Fisher. Donations are appreciated. There are motels and hotels close to the Southport ferry terminal in both the downtown region and the greater Southport region. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. For the enjoyment of our guests, reserved tickets are required. Owners should note that the decks can get hot for dogs paws in the summertime, and should use caution as needed. How to get there? We go every year. Should you make a reservation for the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? The best way to get from Southport to Fort Fisher costs only $2 and takes just 43 mins. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know to make the most of your day or jump below to learn about how to get there and getting tickets. See ferry schedule here, or call (910) 457-6942. Visitors should not exit the vehicle until the ferry has left the docks, and has started the crossing. The Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry crossing is about 35 minutes, while the drive is a little more than an hour, depending on traffic. Private transportation. North Carolina Department of Transportation - NCDOT operates a car ferry from Fort Fisher, NC to Southport, NC hourly. To buy a ticket, register for a class or camp or join the aquarium, please click on links to the right and follow the steps. Until the last few months of the Civil War, Fort Fisher kept North Carolina's port of Wilmington open to blockade-runners supplying necessary goods to Confederate armies inland. Learn how to buy Washington State Ferries tickets, calculate fares, find information about refunds and more. We bring food to throw to the birds off the ferry, also bring a deck of cards or something to keep busy while you are waiting in line for ferry. See ferry schedule here. Is there a passenger lounge on the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry? Can't find a cheaper boat ride anywhere else. The former, as described by Lanier, is the more commercialized of the two destinations and features a boardwalk, outdoor dining options and a plethora of weekly activities including fireworks, live music, amusement park pop-ups, and movies under the stars. Open alcoholic beverages are not allowed on board the Southport - Fort Fisher Ferry, which includes decks, lounges, and inside individual vehicles.