Pamlico Sound Ferry Runs Soft Aground Near Ocracoke

The N.C. Department of Transportation’s Ferry M/V Sea Level ran soft aground in shallow water near Ocracoke Island at approximately 9 a.m. today. The vessel was able to eventually free itself under its own power three hours later. There were no injuries to any passengers or crew members.

The grounding occurred in Bigfoot Slough as the M/V Sea Level was on its way to Ocracoke from Cedar Island. The vessel slowed as it approached the shallow water, but strong 25-knot winds out of the southwest pushed the ferry onto a sandbar. The crew of the Sea Level immediately informed the 16 passengers on board of the situation and confirmed that all were unharmed.

As the tide came in, the Sea Level freed itself under its own power and safely completed the trip to Ocracoke to unload all passengers and vehicles. Crews will inspect the vessel for damage, though none is expected.

“The area where the Sea Level ran aground is a federal channel that is susceptible to rapid shoaling,” said Ferry Division Interim Director Jed Dixon. “We have previously asked the Army Corps of Engineers for some dredging assistance at that location, and we’re hoping they are able to work on it as soon as possible.”