Bald Head Islsnd, NC — Ferry service between Deep Point and Bald Head Island will run on a modified schedule Thursday and Friday as shoaling at the island’s entrance channel continues to restrict safe passage during low tide. The Village of Bald Head Island said service will pause around each day’s low tide and will end earlier than normal both evenings to support dredging operations.
Shoaling has intensified this week after persistent winds prevented the contracted dredge from operating since Monday, July 20, 2026. With the dredge idle, sediment has continued to accumulate in the narrow entrance channel, reducing the depth needed for safe ferry transit.
Tide‑Based Interruptions
Ferry service will be suspended for roughly 90 minutes before and after low tide on both days:
- Low tide July 23 — 9:55 a.m.
- Low tide July 24 — 10:04 a.m.
The pauses are expected to affect morning and midday travel for residents, workers, and visitors.
Early Evening Shutdowns for Dredging
To extend the evening work window for dredging crews, ferry service will end earlier than usual:
- Last Deep Point departure 7:00 p.m.
- Last Bald Head Island departure 7:30 p.m.
During active dredging, the Village will temporarily close the entrance channel to all vessel traffic to allow crews to work safely and efficiently. The adjusted ferry schedule is intended to accelerate restoration of the channel’s safe operating depth and return operations to normal.
Weather‑Dependent Timeline
The dredging contractor is positioned to resume work once wind conditions stabilize. Progress will depend on sediment density, weather consistency, and the ability to maintain uninterrupted evening closures.
The Village will continue issuing updates as conditions change.
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