Come and explore the uninhabited Portsmouth Village and discover a remote, pristine beach and its fascinating seashore creatures. Excursions begin with a twenty-minute boat ride from beautiful Silver Lake Harbor in Ocracoke Village. Once on the island you will discover the historic deserted village of Portsmouth. This settlement was once a thriving port town, established in 1753, with over 685 residents in 1860. It is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The historical buildings open for you to see include the U. S. Life Saving Station, Schoolhouse, Post Office/General Store, Church, and visitor center. Then, its off to a beautiful, remote beach where you can discover excellent shorebird and dolphin watching, sea turtle tracks, and other fascinating creatures. Or, you can take a swim and enjoy the best shelling on the Outer Banks. The ATVs are shared (two people per ATV). Drivers must be at least 16. Children must be 6 years of age to take the tour. We provide the ATVs for the tour and do not take personal ATVs.