Daufuskie Island has no bridge. The only way in is by boat. That can feel confusing when you are planning your first trip.
I have put together everything you need to know right here.
This guide covers ferry options from Hilton Head and Bluffton, top operators, ticket costs, schedules, and booking tips. You will also find practical advice to make your trip smoother.
I have researched this thoroughly so you do not have to dig through ten different websites.
By the end, you will know exactly how to get to Daufuskie Island without any second-guessing.
How Do You Get to Daufuskie Island?
Daufuskie Island sits just off the South Carolina coast, separated from the mainland by the Calibogue Sound. There are no bridges connecting it to the mainland. The only way to get there is by boat.
That makes it feel like a true getaway. No cars rushing past you. No traffic lights. Just water and a slow pace of life waiting on the other side.
Daufuskie is also one of the last remaining Gullah Geechee communities in the United States.
The Gullah people are descendants of West African enslaved people who built a distinct culture, language, and way of life on the Sea Islands of South Carolina and Georgia.
That history is still present on the island in its old churches, cemeteries, and landmarks. It gives the trip a weight that a lot of day trips just do not have.
Getting there is easier than most people expect. You just need to know which ferry or water taxi works best for where you are starting from.
How to Get to Daufuskie Island From Hilton Head
Getting to Daufuskie from Hilton Head is straightforward. Several ferry and water taxi operators run regularly from different marinas depending on where you are staying.
Hilton Head is one of the closest departure points to Daufuskie Island. The water crossing is short, and boats leave from a few different spots.
The three main Hilton Head departure points are Harbour Town Yacht Basin in the south, Broad Creek Marina in the mid-island area, and Shelter Cove Marina further north.
Ferry From Harbour Town
Harbour Town is located inside Sea Pines Resort on Hilton Head Island. Both Vagabond Cruise and H2O Sports operate from the Harbour Town Yacht Basin. All boats arrive at Freeport Marina on the Daufuskie side.
One important note: if you are leaving from Harbour Town, you will need to pay a $9 cash Sea Pines Gate Pass just to access the marina. This cost is not included in your ferry ticket, so have cash on hand.
Haig Point Lighthouse dates to the 1870s and sits on the northern tip of Daufuskie. It is one of the oldest standing structures on the island and gives you a sense of how long people have been navigating these waters.
Seeing it from the water as you pull in is one of those small moments that sticks with you.
Ferry From Broad Creek Marina
Island Head offers daily round-trip departures from Broad Creek Marina on Hilton Head to historic Daufuskie Island, arriving at Freeport Marina.
They also offer private ferry options for groups who want flexible departure times. The crossing takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes and is a solid option for those staying in the mid-island area, where parking is generally available.
Water Taxi From Shelter Cove Marina
From Shelter Cove Marina, Outside Hilton Head offers a water taxi for round-trip service as well as the "Daufuskie Island History & Artisans Tour," a half-day excursion that will take you to a number of historic landmarks and popular local artists' studios.
The tour runs about four hours and gives you a guided look at parts of the island most day-trippers miss. It is a good pick if you want more than just a basic crossing.
Water Taxi From Harbour Town: H2O Sports
H2O Sports offers the quickest ferry to Daufuskie Island. Their water shuttle takes approximately 20 minutes and departs from Harbour Town Marina in the Sea Pines Resort.
The service operates on a reservation basis and offers multiple departure and return times throughout the day. Meet at the H2O Sports booth next to the lighthouse and departure dock.
They can also arrange your golf cart rental in advance so it is waiting at their private dock when you arrive. Book at h2osports.com.
How to Get to Daufuskie Island From Bluffton
Bluffton also has ferry access to Daufuskie, making it a good starting point for those coming from that direction.
Bluffton sits on the mainland and is about 20 minutes from Hilton Head. Visitors not staying on Hilton Head often find the Bluffton departure more convenient.
Ferry From Old Town Bluffton
May River Excursions offers a water taxi to Daufuskie from Historic Bluffton during daylight hours, with a minimum of three people required.
May River Excursions depart from the end of Calhoun Street in Old Town Bluffton, at 110 Calhoun Street, Bluffton, SC 29910.
The crossing takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes, and boats dock at the Beaufort County dock on Daufuskie.
Reservations are required, so call ahead or book online at mayriverexcursions.com. Golf cart rental can also be arranged when you book.
The County Public Ferry From Bluffton Side
The official Lowcountry Ferry departs from C.C. Haigh, Jr. Boat Landing, located between the bridges to Hilton Head Island, and arrives at Melrose Landing on Daufuskie.
Parking is free for ferry riders at the County's C.C. Haigh, Jr. Public Boat Landing located at 2 William Hilton Parkway.
Tickets can be booked and purchased at locoferry.com. This is the most utilitarian option with no frills, but it runs reliably and is the best pick if you simply need a crossing.
Bluffton vs. Hilton Head Ferry Options
The main difference between these two starting points is time and convenience. Hilton Head ferries offer a shorter ride and more operator variety.
The Bluffton and C.C. Haigh options work better for those already based on that side. Both get you to the island. It just depends on where your trip begins.
Daufuskie Island Ferry Schedules and Travel Times
Ferry schedules vary by season and operator, so always check current times before you head to the dock.
The information below reflects schedules as of 2025–2026 and should be confirmed directly with each operator before travel.
Hilton Head to Daufuskie: Vagabond Cruise Schedule
Vagabond Cruise offers two ferry options from Harbour Town: a morning ferry running from 9am to 1pm (available year-round), and an afternoon ferry running from 11:30am to 5pm (available April through September).
The morning trip gives you 3 hours on the island; the afternoon trip gives you 4.5 hours. Trips depart daily but may be limited during winter months. Book at vagabondcruise.com.
Hilton Head to Daufuskie: Island Head / Daufuskie Difference Schedule (Summer 2026)
The 2026 summer schedule (May 1 through August 31) offers three round-trip departure times from Broad Creek Marina. The 9am departure returns from Daufuskie at 3:15pm. The 11am departure returns at 5:15pm.
A 1pm departure returning at 7:15pm is offered Wednesday through Saturday only. One-way crossings are also available. Check daufuskiedifference.com for current schedules and to book tickets.
Lowcountry Ferry Schedule (Public Ferry)
The Lowcountry Ferry runs four daily departures from Hilton Head to Daufuskie: 7am, 10am, 1pm, and 4pm. Return departures from Daufuskie to Hilton Head run at 8:30am, 11:30am, 2:30pm, and 5:30pm.
All riders are required to arrive at the embarkation point 45 minutes prior to departure. The gate closes 5 minutes before departure. Book at locoferry.com.
Bluffton to Daufuskie: May River Excursions Schedule
May River Excursions run seven days a week during daylight hours. Departure times are set by the operator and vary, so you will need to call or check their website before your trip.
Even if your water taxi is confirmed, you will need to contact May River Excursions at 1-843-304-2878 prior to arrival to arrange your exact departure time.
They will accommodate you on the next available trip closest to your desired time.
How Long Is the Ferry Ride to Daufuskie Island?
Travel times vary by operator and route. The H2O Sports water taxi from Harbour Town is the fastest at around 20 minutes.
Vagabond Cruise from Harbour Town takes about 30 minutes. Island Head from Broad Creek Marina takes 40 to 45 minutes.
The Lowcountry Ferry from C.C. Haigh Landing runs about 30 to 40 minutes. May River Excursions from Bluffton take 25 to 30 minutes to reach the Beaufort County dock.
The rides are smooth on calm days and give you a nice look at the marshes and waterways along the South Carolina coast.
Daufuskie Island Ferry Operators
Several ferry companies serve Daufuskie Island, each with slightly different routes, pricing, and schedules. Here is a current look at the main operators running trips to Daufuskie.
Lowcountry Ferry (Official Public Ferry)
Lowcountry Ferry is the official public ferry serving Daufuskie Island, with fares beginning at $30. Ferry tickets are $30 per one-way trip.
Payments are collected at time of boarding. Each ticket includes one carry-on bag limited to 50 pounds and one personal item.
Departure is from C.C. Haigh, Jr. Boat Landing between the bridges to Hilton Head Island, arriving at Melrose Landing on Daufuskie. Book online at locoferry.com or call 843-422-1597.
Island Head / Daufuskie Difference
Island Head ferry service departs from Broad Creek Marina on Hilton Head Island and arrives at Freeport Marina on Daufuskie Island.
Daufuskie Difference is the tour brand that packages these crossings with guided day trips, golf cart rentals, and island access.
Pricing for the Island Head ferry ranges from $10 per child or pet to $30 per adult, with luggage fees applying for extra bags. They also offer private ferry options for groups. Book at daufuskiedifference.com.
H2O Sports
H2O Sports offers the quickest ferry to Daufuskie Island, with the water shuttle taking approximately 20 minutes, departing from Harbour Town Marina in the Sea Pines Resort.
The service runs on a reservation basis with multiple departure and return times available. Golf cart rentals can be arranged through them in advance, waiting at their private dock on arrival. Book at h2osports.com.
May River Excursions
May River Excursions departs from the end of Calhoun Street in Old Town Bluffton (110 Calhoun Street) and provides water taxi service to Daufuskie Island.
The crossing takes 25 to 30 minutes and arrives at the Beaufort County dock on Daufuskie. Pricing starts at $50 per person round-trip with a three-person minimum, and a $20 fee applies for bicycles.
Golf cart rental can be arranged at time of booking. Call 843-304-2878 or visit mayriverexcursions.com.
Vagabond Cruise
Vagabond Cruise departs from Harbour Town and offers a scenic narrated ferry to Daufuskie, arriving at Freeport Marina.
Guests are also welcome to bring bicycles aboard at no additional cost. The morning ferry runs from 9am to 1pm and is available year-round.
The afternoon ferry runs from 11:30am to 5pm and is available April through September. Adult tickets on the morning ferry are $39.95. Children's tickets are $19.95. Book at vagabondcruise.com.
Outside Hilton Head
Outside Hilton Head runs a water taxi and guided excursion from Shelter Cove Marina.
Their Daufuskie Island History & Artisans Tour is a half-day experience that includes historic landmarks and visits to local artists' studios.
Check outsidehiltonhead.com for current schedules and pricing.
How Much Does It Cost to Get to Daufuskie Island?
The total cost depends on which operator you choose, the season, and what extras you add.
The following prices reflect 2025–2026 rates always confirm current pricing on the operator's website before booking.
Ferry Ticket Prices
Vagabond Cruise charges adults $39.95 and children $19.95, with babies riding free. Lowcountry Ferry charges $30 per one-way trip, with each ticket including one carry-on bag.
Island Head tickets range from $10 per child or pet to $30 per adult, with luggage fees applying for extra bags. May River Excursions starts at $50 per person round-trip with a three-person minimum.
If departing from Harbour Town on Hilton Head, budget an extra $9 cash for the Sea Pines Gate Pass, which is required to access the marina and is not included in any ferry ticket.
Additional Transportation Costs
Once you are on the island, you will need a way to get around. Golf carts are the main mode of transportation on Daufuskie, and private cars are not permitted.
You can rent one at the General Store near Freeport Marina when you arrive, or arrange it in advance through your ferry operator. Golf cart rentals on the island typically run about $85 for three hours.
Some ferry packages bundle this in, so it is worth asking when you book. If you prefer, you can also bring your own bicycle aboard most ferries at no extra cost.
How to Book a Daufuskie Island Ferry
Booking your ferry in advance takes only a few minutes and saves you from dealing with full boats or sold-out crossings.
Most ferry operators have online booking available. Direct links are listed under each operator in the sections above. You can also call ahead if you prefer.
Either way, having your reservation confirmed before you head to the dock makes the day run more smoothly.
What to Check Before Booking
Before you confirm your booking, go over a few things. Make sure the departure location matches where you will be staying.
Confirm that the schedule you are looking at applies to your travel dates, since summer and off-season schedules differ.
Check the cancellation policy in case plans change. And ask whether golf cart rentals are available through the same operator so you can bundle your booking.
Should You Book the Ferry in Advance?
Yes, especially during summer and holiday weekends. Daufuskie is a popular day-trip destination and ferries fill up.
Booking a few days ahead is a good habit. If you are traveling during a busy period, booking even earlier gives you more choices on departure times.
Tips for Getting to Daufuskie Island
A little prep goes a long way when planning your first trip out to Daufuskie Island. These tips can help your visit go smoothly from start to finish.
- Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before your departure time. This gives you time to park, pay any gate fees, and get settled before boarding.
- If you are departing from Harbour Town, bring $9 in cash for the Sea Pines Gate Pass. This fee catches a lot of first-timers off guard and is not mentioned during online booking.
- Double-check the departure location before you leave. Each operator uses a different dock, and some are a significant drive apart on Hilton Head.
- Book a round-trip ticket when you can. It is easier and often less expensive than buying tickets separately.
- Reserve a golf cart ahead of time if you are visiting during peak periods. They go fast, especially in summer.
- Check for weather updates before you leave. Rough conditions can cause delays or cancellations on ferry routes. If your trip is cancelled, most operators will contact you by phone or email and offer a rebooking or refund. Confirm the weather policy when you book so you know what to expect.
- Pack your own groceries if you plan to stay overnight. The Freeport General Store near the marina stocks only a few basics, and the nearest full grocery store is back on Hilton Head.
- Plan a stop at Old Daufuskie Crab Co. for lunch while you are on the island. It is a favorite among day-trippers and sits close to the marina.
Conclusion
Getting to Daufuskie Island sounds complicated at first, but honestly, once you figure out your ferry and dock, it all falls into place.
I love how the boat ride itself starts the whole experience before you even set foot on the island.
Watching the mainland disappear behind you and knowing there are no cars, no traffic lights, and centuries of Gullah history waiting on the other side is a feeling you do not get on a lot of day trips.
If you are planning your first trip, start with the ferry booking and build your day from there.
Have questions about getting to Daufuskie Island? Drop them in the comments. I would love to help you plan a smooth trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you bring a car to Daufuskie Island?
No, there is no car ferry to Daufuskie Island. Golf carts and bikes are the main ways to get around once you arrive.
Is Daufuskie Island open year-round?
Yes, the island is accessible year-round. However, ferry schedules and available services are more limited during the fall and winter months. The Vagabond Cruise afternoon ferry, for example, only runs April through September.
Do you need an ID to board the Daufuskie Island ferry?
For the Lowcountry Ferry, have your ID and ticket reservation ready when boarding. For private operators like Vagabond Cruise and H2O Sports, a confirmation email is typically enough. Check with your operator at the time of booking.
Can you take pets on the Daufuskie Island ferry?
Some operators allow small pets on board, but policies vary. Always contact your ferry operator directly before bringing a pet along. Island Head notes that pet tickets are available at $10 each.
What happens if my ferry is cancelled due to weather?
Most operators will contact you by phone or email if a trip is cancelled because of rough conditions. Policies on rebooking and refunds vary, so ask about this before you finalize your reservation. Having a flexible travel day if you can swing it is never a bad idea.
