Ever dreamed of escaping to a remote island where golf carts replace cars and time seems to slow down? Welcome to Daufuskie Island, South Carolina – a slice of Lowcountry paradise that you can only reach by water.

Unlike most places you’ve visited, there are no bridges connecting this island to the mainland. That means a ferry ride isn’t just an option – it’s your golden ticket to paradise.

So let’s dive into everything you need to know about getting to this magical place, from schedules to tickets to what to expect when you arrive. Consider this your complete guide to Daufuskie Island ferry services!

Your Complete Guide to Daufuskie Island Ferries

Where Do the Ferries Leave From?

There are two main places where you can catch a ferry to Daufuskie:

1. Buckingham Landing – Located at the foot of the Hilton Head Bridge on the Bluffton side, this is where the official Daufuskie Island Ferry departs.

2. Broad Creek Marina – On Hilton Head Island, this is where you’ll find Island Head Ferry and other services.

Several companies operate these routes, offering everything from regular daily service to private charters for those “I’m feeling fancy” moments.

When Do Ferries Run? (AKA “Don’t Miss the Boat”)

The good news? Ferries run multiple times daily, year-round. The slightly more complicated news? Schedules vary by season and operator.

Daufuskie Island Ferry (from Buckingham Landing):

• Departures: 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM
• Friday night bonus departure: 9:00 PM (perfect for weekend getaways!)
• Return trips: About 1.5 hours after each departure time

Island Head Ferry (from Broad Creek):

• Daily round trips generally between 9 AM and 5 PM
• Winter bonus: Extra 10 AM return from Daufuskie

Most ferry rides take about 30-40 minutes – just enough time to spot dolphins, breathe in that salty air, and mentally transition to island time.

Booking Your Ferry (Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute)

Here’s my advice: make reservations. While you might get lucky with a walk-up ticket during off-season weekdays, don’t risk it during summer, weekends, or holidays.

Booking is straightforward:

• Online reservations through ferry websites
• Phone bookings (Island Head Ferry: 843-686-4386)
• Some operators send helpful text notifications with ready times

Daufuskie transit options can help coordinate your entire trip, making sure you don’t miss connections.

What Will It Cost Me?

Ferry tickets typically start around $30 per adult round-trip. Kids under five usually ride free (score one for family travel!).

Your ticket generally includes:

• Carry-on baggage
• Small coolers
• Bicycles

Larger items might cost extra, with luggage barge fees starting around $25. Most ferries accept credit cards and online payments, so no need to hit the ATM before boarding.

The Ferry Experience (It’s Part of the Adventure)

These aren’t your average commuter ferries. Many resemble small yachts, with:

• Climate-controlled cabins (blessed air conditioning in summer!)
• Outdoor viewing decks perfect for wildlife spotting
• Comfortable seating and teak interiors

The journey itself is worth the price of admission. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playing in the wake and diverse seabirds soaring overhead. Wildlife viewing opportunities make the crossing an attraction in itself.

Getting Around Once You’re There

Once you step off the ferry, you’ll notice something missing – cars! The preferred method of transportation on Daufuskie is the humble golf cart.

Many ferry services partner with golf cart rental companies, letting you book your entire transportation package together. Daufuskie Difference even offers lunch packages alongside ferry tickets and golf cart rentals.

Trust me on this one – exploring the island by golf cart is half the fun!

Parking and Docking Details

If you’re driving to the ferry:

• Buckingham Landing offers free parking
• Most marina departure points have ample parking

Bringing your own boat? Public docks like Freeport Marina offer:

• Free day docking
• Overnight slips for a fee (varies by boat size)

Tips for Avoiding the Crowds

Nobody likes waiting in line, especially when paradise awaits. To avoid the busiest ferry times, steer clear of these peak windows:

• 7:30-8:00 AM
• 10:30-11:00 AM
• 1:45-2:30 PM
• 4:45-5:30 PM

Booking just outside these windows can mean a more relaxed experience and sometimes better wildlife viewing too!

Cancellation Policies (Because Plans Change)

Life happens, even to the best-planned island getaways. Many services offer full refunds with 24-hour notice, but policies vary by operator.

Always check the cancellation policy when booking, especially if your travel dates might be affected by weather. Ferry service details typically include this information.

What Makes the Ferry Journey Special

From the moment you step aboard to when you arrive at this car-free paradise, the ferry ride is more than just transportation – it’s the beginning of your island adventure.

During your 30-40 minute journey, you’ll experience:

• The thrill of spotting playful dolphins
• Stunning Lowcountry landscapes
• A peaceful transition from mainland hustle to island chill

Key Ferry Contacts (Save These Numbers!)

• Island Head Ferry: (843) 686-4386
• Daufuskie Transit: (843) 338-2570 ext 1
• Daufuskie Difference: (843) 290-9336

I recommend saving these contacts before your trip – just in case you need to make last-minute changes or have questions.

Ferry Options at a Glance

• Official Daufuskie Island Ferry
  Departs from: Buckingham Landing
  Typical schedule: Multiple daily departures
  Duration: ~40 minutes

• Island Head Ferry
  Departs from: Broad Creek Marina
  Typical schedule: 9 AM to 5 PM daily
  Duration: ~30 minutes

• Private Charters/Water Taxis
  Departs from: Various locations
  Schedule: On demand
  Duration: Varies

The ferry to Daufuskie isn’t just transportation – it’s your gateway to a simpler way of life, where nature takes center stage and time moves at a different pace.

Whether you’re planning a day trip to explore historic sites, a weekend getaway, or a longer vacation, understanding your ferry options will ensure your journey is as smooth as the waters of the Calibogue Sound on a calm summer morning.

So pack your sense of adventure (and maybe a camera for those dolphin sightings), and get ready to experience one of South Carolina’s best-kept secrets – all it takes is a short ferry ride to enter another world entirely!