Three Island Dock Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Three Island Dock is well-connected by coastal roads, with clear signage guiding visitors from nearby towns and highways. Regular bus services operate from major regional centers, typically taking 30-45 minutes from the nearest city. If traveling from further afield, regional train services stop at the nearby station, with a short taxi or shuttle ride completing the journey to the ferry terminal. Ample parking facilities are available for those arriving by car, with both short-term and long-term options, though arriving early during peak season is recommended as spaces fill quickly.

Nestled along a picturesque coastline, Three Island Dock serves as a vital maritime hub connecting travelers to a trio of stunning islands. The bustling port combines practical efficiency with coastal charm, making it more than just a transit point but the beginning of your island journey. As ferries come and go throughout the day, you'll feel the distinct rhythm of island life that has defined this region for generations.

The climate around Three Island Dock features warm summers (June-August) with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and mild winters rarely dipping below 45°F. Late spring (May) and early fall (September) offer the perfect balance of pleasant weather and reduced crowds, making these months ideal for ferry travel. Summer brings the most frequent ferry departures and lively harbor festivals, particularly the mid-July Maritime Heritage Celebration. Winter schedules are reduced but still regular, with the advantage of peaceful crossings and dramatic seascapes. Ferry services may occasionally face weather-related adjustments during winter storms, so checking schedules in advance is advisable.

From Three Island Dock, travelers can easily reach Granite Isle (30-minute crossing), known for its striking rock formations and historic lighthouse that dates back to 1879. Sandbar Island lies just 20 minutes away by ferry, offering pristine beaches and a laid-back village famous for its seafood restaurants and artisan shops. For those seeking nature immersion, Evergreen Point is a 45-minute journey, boasting protected forests, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. The inter-island route connecting all three destinations is particularly scenic during sunset crossings, with many travelers opting for an island-hopping itinerary to experience the unique character of each location.

While waiting for your ferry, explore the charming Harbor District with its weathered wooden buildings housing maritime museums and local craft shops that showcase the region's seafaring heritage. Sample the day's catch at the Dockside Market, where food stalls serve everything from classic fish and chips to gourmet seafood platters featuring locally harvested oysters and clams. The Coastal Trail offers an easy 2-mile walk with panoramic ocean views and interpretive panels explaining the area's natural history. Don't miss the historic Harbor Lighthouse, which offers guided tours hourly and provides the perfect vantage point for watching ferries navigate the channel.

Three Island Dock was originally built in 1873 as a whaling station before being converted to passenger service in 1912, with some of the original timber pilings still visible at low tide. The unusual tidal patterns here create what locals call the 'Whisper Current,' where water flowing between specific rock formations produces a sound resembling hushed conversations. The dock holds the regional record for the most consecutive days of ferry service without interruption, an impressive 3,217 days from 1997 to 2005. The harbor seal colony that has made its home near the jetty has become so accustomed to the ferry schedule that they appear to 'wave' at the 2:15 pm departure.