There are extra ferries running this weekend from Ocracoke to Swan Quarter because of shoaling problems with the ferry to Hatteras.
The Ferry Division says it will add two departures from Swan Quarter on Saturday and Sunday, at 7:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. That's in addition to already scheduled 10:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. departures. Also, there will be a 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. departure from Ocracoke, in addition to the already scheduled 7:00 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. runs.
The state continues to monitor the channel and could possibly extend the extra runs. Also, Ocracoke and Hatteras residents can ride toll free on a space available basis until the channel is clear
Earlier this week it was announced that travelers using the Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry route could encounter delays, load weight restrictions and possible suspensions due to extreme shoaling of the Hatteras Inlet channel. Suspensions have already occurred daily.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is working to resolve the problem.
