Getting to Daufuskie Island is easier than most people think, but only if you know which ferry to take, where to board, and when to go.
Many visitors waste time searching for accurate schedules or show up at the wrong dock without a reservation.
This guide covers how to get to Daufuskie Island step by step, including ferry operators, departure points, ticket prices, schedules, and what to expect when you arrive.
After researching the ferry system and comparing every major operator serving Daufuskie Island, I’ve put together this guide using official ferry information, current pricing, and practical visitor planning tips so you can avoid the most common mistakes travelers make.
By the end of this article, you will have everything you need to reach Daufuskie Island with confidence.
How to Get to Daufuskie Island (Quick Answer)
Getting to Daufuskie Island requires taking a ferry. There are no bridges connecting it to the mainland, so water is the only way in.
Most ferries depart from Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, South Carolina. The ride takes around 20 to 45 minutes depending on which operator you choose and where you board.
You can book a passenger ferry, a water taxi, or a private boat charter depending on your group size and budget.
Once you arrive on the island, you will need a golf cart to get around since there are no regular roads or public transportation.
Where Do Ferries Depart for Daufuskie Island?
Knowing where to catch your ferry saves a lot of confusion on the day of travel.
Ferry Departure Points from Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island is the most popular starting point for visitors heading to Daufuskie Island.
The main departure location is Broad Creek Marina, which is centrally located and easy to find.
Several ferry operators run regular service from this marina throughout the day. Parking is available nearby, though it fills up quickly during the summer months.
Harbour Town Marina is another key departure point used by Vagabond Cruises and H2O Sports Water Taxi.
It sits inside the Sea Pines Resort, which means you will need to pay a $9 cash Sea Pines Gate Pass just to access the marina.
This fee catches a lot of visitors off guard, so bring cash if your ferry departs from here.
Shelter Cove Harbour is used by some additional water taxi and charter services and is worth checking if your operator is based there.
Ferry Departure Points from Bluffton
If you are staying near Bluffton or the Okatie area, you can board a ferry from Bluffton directly.
The main departure point on this side is Buckingham Landing, also known as CC Haigh Jr. Landing, which serves as the public ferry dock for the Daufuskie Island Ferry Company.
Some operators also use the dock at the end of Calhoun Street near the Bluffton Oyster Factory Park for trips down the May River toward Daufuskie Island.
This side is generally less busy than Hilton Head and tends to be a more relaxed boarding experience.
Travel time from Bluffton is slightly longer since the route covers more water, but it is a scenic ride through the Lowcountry.
Arrival Docks on Daufuskie Island
Ferries typically dock at one of two locations on Daufuskie Island. Freeport Marina is the main arrival point for most day-trip passenger ferries and water taxis.
It is centrally located, close to golf cart rental pickups, and right next to the Old Daufuskie Crab Company, which makes for a convenient first stop for food or drinks after you land.
The second dock is Melrose Dock, which is the primary arrival point for the public Daufuskie Island Ferry Company running from Buckingham Landing.
There is also a dock near the Haig Point private community, which is used mainly by residents and club members.
How Long Does It Take to Get to Daufuskie Island?
The ferry ride from Hilton Head Island to Daufuskie Island takes about 20 to 30 minutes on most routes.
From Bluffton, expect the trip to take around 35 to 45 minutes. Weather and water conditions can add a few minutes to your ride, so plan with a small buffer.
Keep your eyes open during the crossing too since Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are commonly spotted in these Lowcountry waters.
Best Ferry Operators to Daufuskie Island
Several companies run ferry service to Daufuskie Island, each with slightly different schedules, pricing, and services.
Lowcountry Ferry
Lowcountry Ferry is one of the most well-known operators for getting to Daufuskie Island. They run scheduled passenger ferry service from Broad Creek Marina on Hilton Head Island.
They offer both one-way and round-trip tickets and typically have multiple departures per day.
Lowcountry Ferry is a solid choice for day-trippers and first-time visitors.
Residents and property owners on Daufuskie Island can also apply for a discount card through Lowcountry Ferry, which reduces the cost of regular crossings.
Island Head Ferry
Island Head Ferry is another popular option running between Hilton Head and Daufuskie Island from Broad Creek Marina.
They are known for being reliable and keeping a consistent daily schedule.
They offer package deals that can include golf cart rentals, which is helpful since you will need a cart to get around the island once you arrive.
Their “Meals and Wheels” package bundles ferry tickets, a golf cart rental, and a food voucher into one booking, which is a good deal for families or groups planning a full day out.
Daufuskie Island Ferry Company
The Daufuskie Island Ferry Company focuses on scheduled service for residents, day visitors, and people with reservations at island accommodations.
They depart from Buckingham Landing in Bluffton and arrive at Melrose Dock on Daufuskie Island, with the crossing taking about 30 to 40 minutes.
They have a more limited schedule compared to some other operators, so booking in advance is a good idea. Their boats are comfortable and the service is straightforward.
Vagabond Cruises
Vagabond Cruises offers a mix of ferry service and more curated boat experiences departing from Harbour Town Marina on Hilton Head Island.
The crossing takes around 30 minutes each way and often includes a narrated tour with local guides pointing out wildlife and landmarks along the route.
If you are likely to spot dolphins on any crossing, it is during a Vagabond trip. Remember the $9 Sea Pines Gate Pass if you are departing from Harbour Town.
H2O Sports Water Taxi
H2O Sports operates a water taxi service that runs from Harbour Town Marina and is one of the fastest options at around 20 minutes.
This is a good pick for smaller groups or travelers who want a quicker, more direct ride.
It is reservation-based, so call ahead to confirm timing and arrange golf cart pickup on arrival.
The $9 Sea Pines Gate Pass applies here as well since you board from inside the Sea Pines Resort.
May River Excursions
May River Excursions runs trips from Old Town Bluffton seven days a week during daylight hours.
Embarkation is from the dock at the end of Calhoun Street. Reservations are required, and there is a minimum fee to depart.
Golf cart rental can also be arranged at the time of booking, which makes this a convenient one-stop option for visitors staying near the Okatie corridor or southern Beaufort County.
The route follows the scenic May River before reaching Daufuskie Island.
Daufuskie Island Ferry Comparison Table
Not all ferries are the same, so use this table to find the one that fits your plans, budget, and starting point.
| Operator | Departure Point | Travel Time | Price Range | Best For |
| Lowcountry Ferry | Broad Creek Marina, Hilton Head | 20-30 min | $30-$50 RT | Day-trippers |
| Island Head Ferry | Broad Creek Marina, Hilton Head | 20-30 min | $35-$55 RT | Packages with golf cart |
| Daufuskie Island Ferry Co. | Buckingham Landing, Bluffton | 30-40 min | $30-$45 RT | Residents and guests |
| Vagabond Cruises | Harbour Town Marina, Hilton Head | 30 min | $40-$65 RT | Guided experiences |
| H2O Sports Water Taxi | Harbour Town Marina, Hilton Head | 20 min | $45 per person | Small groups, fastest option |
| May River Excursions | Calhoun Street Dock, Bluffton | 35-45 min | $35-$55 RT | Visitors from Bluffton area |
Prices and schedules change seasonally, so always check directly with the operator before booking.
Daufuskie Island Ferry Schedule
Knowing the ferry schedule ahead of time helps you plan your day without unnecessary stress.
Daily Ferry Schedule from Hilton Head Island
Most operators running from Hilton Head offer morning departures starting around 9:00 AM and continue with scheduled runs throughout the day.
Island Head Ferry, for example, runs round-trip departures at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and a seasonal 1:00 PM run Wednesday through Saturday during peak summer months.
Return trips back to Hilton Head typically leave Daufuskie Island around 3:15 PM, 5:15 PM, and 7:15 PM depending on which run you are on.
Exact times vary by company and season, so confirm before you go.
Daily Ferry Schedule from Bluffton
The Daufuskie Island Ferry Company running from Buckingham Landing in Bluffton operates several times daily, with departures to Daufuskie at roughly 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 4:00 PM, and return trips from Daufuskie at 8:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, and 5:30 PM.
There is also a Friday night departure at 9:00 PM with a return at 10:30 PM. May River Excursions from Bluffton run during daylight hours seven days a week with fewer scheduled departures.
If you are planning a full day on the island departing from Bluffton, always check the last return time so you are not stuck.
One-Way vs. Round-Trip Ferry Options
Most operators offer both one-way and round-trip tickets. Round-trip tickets are almost always the better value.
If you are planning to stay overnight, you can book a one-way ticket going in and arrange your return separately.
Some accommodations on the island work with specific ferry operators and can help coordinate return trips.
Seasonal Ferry Schedules and Holiday Changes
Ferry schedules change based on the time of year. Spring and summer are peak seasons, and most operators run more frequent departures during these months.
Fall schedules begin to thin out, and winter service is often reduced significantly.
Holidays can bring either extra runs or closures, so check the operator’s website or call them directly if you are traveling around major holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, or Labor Day.
Ferry Travel Times by Operator
Travel time to Daufuskie Island ranges from 20 minutes on the fastest water taxi routes to around 45 minutes on longer Bluffton-based runs.
The difference usually comes down to the type of vessel, the route taken, and water conditions that day. Calm days make for quicker, smoother crossings.
Ferry Ticket Prices and How to Book Your Trip
Understanding what you will pay and how to book avoids surprises at the dock.
Ferry Ticket Prices by Operator
Round-trip tickets for adults typically range from $30 to $65 depending on the operator, the type of service, and what is included.
Vagabond Cruises charges around $39.95 for adults and $19.95 for children. H2O Sports Water Taxi runs $45 per adult and $35 per child.
Island Head Ferry is around $42 per person, and Lowcountry Ferry starts at around $30.
Children under 5 ride free with an adult on most ferries. One-way tickets are generally priced at around 60 to 70 percent of the round-trip fare.
Where to Book Ferry Tickets
The safest way to book is directly through the operator’s website.
Most major ferry companies have online booking systems that let you select your date, departure time, and number of passengers.
You can also call the operator directly if you prefer. Avoid third-party booking sites that may not reflect real-time availability.
Ferry Packages That Include Golf Cart Rentals or Guided Tours
Several operators offer bundled packages that combine your ferry ticket with a golf cart rental, which makes things much more convenient.
Island Head Ferry’s “Meals and Wheels” package is one of the most complete options, covering your ferry ticket, a golf cart rental, and a food voucher at the Old Daufuskie Crab Company in a single booking.
Some packages also include guided tours of the island’s historic sites, such as the First Union African Baptist Church and the Mary Fields School where author Pat Conroy once taught, as described in his memoir The Water Is Wide.
Reservation Requirements and When to Book
During spring and summer, ferries fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book at least one to two weeks in advance during peak season.
For holiday weekends, book even earlier. Off-season travel in fall and winter gives you more flexibility, but service is limited, so confirming availability ahead of time is still a smart move.
Cancellation Policies, Weather Delays, and Refund Information
Most operators have a 24 to 48-hour cancellation policy for a full refund. Cancellations made closer to the departure date may result in a partial refund or a credit toward a future trip.
Weather-related cancellations are generally handled on a case-by-case basis. If the ferry company cancels due to weather, most will offer a full refund or allow you to reschedule.
Always read the cancellation policy before you book.
Extra Costs to Expect (Parking, Gate Passes, Golf Cart Rentals, and Docking Fees)
The ferry ticket is just one part of the overall cost.
Here is what else to budget for:
Parking at Broad Creek Marina on Hilton Head typically costs around $10 to $20 per day.
If your ferry departs from Harbour Town Marina inside Sea Pines Resort, factor in the $9 cash Sea Pines Gate Pass, which is not always included in online booking totals.
Golf cart rentals on Daufuskie Island run between $60 and $100 for the day depending on the cart size and provider, with some operators charging around $85 for a three-hour block.
Some areas of the island, including the Haig Point community, require a gate pass for access, and non-residents may not be able to enter certain private areas at all.
Daily docking at Freeport Marina for private boats is $10 per vessel, and overnight slips run $5 per linear foot per night.
Barge service for larger items is available but priced at $4 per square foot with a minimum charge, so that adds up quickly if you are moving gear or luggage to the island.
Getting Around Daufuskie Island After You Arrive
Landing on the island is just the beginning. Getting around well makes a big difference in how much you enjoy the day.
Which Dock Will You Arrive At?
Most day visitors arrive at Freeport Marina, which is the central hub for day-trippers and where most golf cart rental companies operate.
If you take the Daufuskie Island Ferry Company from Buckingham Landing, you will arrive at Melrose Dock instead.
If you arrive at a different dock through a private boat or specialty charter, your pickup logistics may differ, so confirm with your operator in advance.
Golf Cart Rentals and Pickup Locations
Golf cart rentals are available right at or near Freeport Marina.
Several rental companies operate on the island, including those connected to Island Head Ferry and Daufuskie Difference, and some ferry packages include a cart as part of the booking.
If your package does not include a cart, you can rent one on arrival, but booking ahead during busy periods is wise.
Carts are the standard way to get around since the island has unpaved roads and no standard vehicles.
Can You Bring a Bicycle, Luggage, or Pets?
Most ferry operators allow small amounts of luggage, though there may be size or weight restrictions.
Lowcountry Ferry offers climate-controlled storage and a luggage barge service for larger items, though extra fees apply.
Bicycles are allowed on some ferries at no extra charge with advance notice, but not all operators accommodate them, so ask ahead.
Pets are allowed on some ferries but may need to be in a carrier or kept on a leash at all times. Check with your specific operator before assuming any of these are permitted.
Traveling by Private Boat and Freeport Marina Docking
If you have access to a private boat, you can make your own way to Daufuskie Island and dock at Freeport Marina.
The County Dock is also a public option that is open 24 hours a day for brief stops.
Daily docking at Freeport Marina is $10 per vessel and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
For overnight stays, reservations must be made through Dockwa.com, where you can search for Freeport Marina and submit your slip request.
Overnight slips run $5 per linear foot per night and availability can be tight on holiday weekends, so book as early as possible.
Ferry Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
A little preparation goes a long way when taking the ferry to Daufuskie Island.
- Arrive at least 20 to 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. During summer weekends, docks get crowded fast, so giving yourself extra buffer time helps you park, confirm your booking, and board without rushing.
- Book your ferry tickets directly through the operator’s website rather than third-party platforms. Third-party sites often show outdated availability and may not reflect real-time schedule changes or cancellations.
- Check the last return ferry time before you finalize your plans for the day on the island. Missing the last boat back means you are either stuck overnight or scrambling for a very expensive private water taxi.
- Book a golf cart rental in advance, especially if you are traveling during spring or summer. Carts go fast on busy days, and showing up without one leaves you with very limited ways to get around the island.
- Always read the cancellation policy before you complete your booking. Weather delays and unexpected changes happen in the Lowcountry, and knowing your refund or reschedule options ahead of time saves a lot of frustration later.
Conclusion
Getting to Daufuskie Island is not complicated once you know what to expect.
Choose your departure point, pick a ferry operator that works for your schedule and budget, book your tickets in advance, and plan for a golf cart when you arrive.
The island has a pace of life that is hard to find anywhere else on the East Coast, and a rich Gullah Geechee history that makes it worth every bit of planning.
If this guide on how to get to Daufuskie Island helped you, share it with someone else planning the same trip or drop a question in the comments below.
And if you are still deciding where to stay or what to see once you land, check out our related guides to make the most of your time there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog on the ferry to Daufuskie Island?
Some operators allow pets with advance notice. Always call ahead to confirm their pet policy before booking.
Is there an ATM on Daufuskie Island?
There are very few services on the island. Bring cash or load up your card before boarding the ferry.
Do ferries run to Daufuskie Island in the winter?
Yes, but with reduced frequency. Some operators cut back significantly from November through February.
Can I buy a ferry ticket on the day of travel without booking in advance?
Walk-up tickets are sometimes available but not guaranteed, especially on weekends during peak season.
Are children’s ferry tickets cheaper than adult tickets?
Many operators offer reduced fares for children under 12. Age cutoffs and discounts vary by company.
