Reservations for the boat trips to Portsmouth Island from Ocracoke should be made beginning in March by calling Rudy Austin at Ocracoke (252-928-4361).  The cost is $20 per person, round trip.  Make a note on your calendar to call Rudy after March 1.   

The North Carolina ferry service is currently changing schedules and prices.  Please contact them directly for the latest information, schedules and prices – Ferry Number:  1-800-293-3779, or online at www.ncferry.org. 

The boats to Portsmouth load at the NPS docks at Ocracoke.  Park your car and follow the crowd!  Return ferry reservations should be made on the last state ferry to Cedar Island if you are not planning to stay on Ocracoke Saturday night.  Dress for the weather and for the boat ride, and bring bug spray and good walking shoes!

Events for the day include a ribbing cutting for the newly restored Henry Pigott House, hymn singing in the Methodist church, a special stamp cancellation at the Post Office, homecoming program under the tent in the village, and dinner on the grounds immediately following the program.  Ice, paper products and tables will be provided.  Everyone needs to bring food to share and your beverage.  Please label your food containers and coolers.  ATV carts will meet you at the dock to carry your items into the village for you. 

Boats returning to Ocracoke will run as long as needed to get everyone off Portsmouth.

For the strong of heart and 4WD owners, Portsmouth Village is also accessible by ferry from the beach.  Contact Morris Marina at Atlantic (252-225-4261) for reservations and prices.

In case of inclement weather, Homecoming will be held at the Assembly of God Church on Lighthouse Road at Ocracoke.

For more information about Homecoming, contact Richard Meissner at 252-2250, Ext. 3008 (Cape Lookout National Seashore), or click on the “Contact Us” link on this website.  We will do our best to answer your questions.