What the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Is and Who Runs It

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is a vehicle and passenger ferry that crosses the Delaware Bay between Cape May, New Jersey, and Lewes, Delaware. It is operated by the Delaware River and Bay Authority, a public agency created by New Jersey and Delaware. The ferry runs year-round and carries cars, trucks, motorcycles, and walk-on passengers.

The crossing takes about 85 minutes. The ferry operates multiple times daily, with more frequent sailings during summer months and fewer during winter. The schedule changes seasonally, so you should check the current timetable before you travel.

Key Takeaways

  • The ferry departs from Cape May, New Jersey, and Lewes, Delaware, with sailings throughout the day and different schedules for summer and winter months.
  • You can bring a vehicle or walk on as a passenger, and fares differ based on vehicle type, passenger age, and whether you book in advance or at the terminal.
  • Reservations are strongly recommended during summer and holiday weekends, as sailings fill up and walk-ups may not get a spot.
  • Vehicles must arrive 45 minutes before departure, and walk-on passengers should arrive 30 minutes early to allow time for security screening.
  • The ferry accepts cash and credit cards at the ticket window, and you can also purchase tickets online in advance.

Vehicle Fares and Passenger Costs

Fares vary based on what you are bringing and who is traveling. A standard passenger car costs one amount, while larger vehicles like SUVs, pickup trucks, and RVs cost more. Motorcycles have their own lower rate. Walk-on passengers pay a separate fare per person.

Children, seniors, and military personnel may receive discounts. Exact prices change seasonally and sometimes year to year, so check the Delaware River and Bay Authority website for current rates before you book. You can also call their ticket office to ask about the fare for your specific vehicle type.

If you book your ticket online in advance, you may pay a different rate than if you buy at the terminal. Some advance bookings lock in a price, while others charge a reservation fee on top of the base fare. Read the terms when you book to understand what you are paying.

How to Book Your Ticket

You can purchase tickets three ways: online through the Delaware River and Bay Authority website, by phone at their ticket office, or in person at either terminal. Online booking is fastest and lets you choose your specific sailing and vehicle type before you arrive.

When you book online, you will enter your vehicle information (make, model, license plate), the number of passengers, and your preferred departure date and time. The system will show you available sailings and calculate your total fare. You pay by credit card and receive a confirmation number via email.

If you prefer to book by phone or in person, have your vehicle details ready and know roughly when you want to travel. The ticket office staff can tell you which sailings have space and process your payment on the spot. Walk-ups are possible but not recommended during peak season, as sailings often fill completely.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Bring a valid photo ID for yourself and all passengers. If you are driving a vehicle, bring your driver's license and vehicle registration. The ferry does not require a passport for travel between New Jersey and Delaware, but you do need to prove who you are.

Arrive at the terminal early: 45 minutes before departure if you are driving a vehicle, and 30 minutes early if you are walking on. This gives you time to check in, go through security screening, and board. During summer weekends, terminals can be crowded, so arriving even earlier is wise.

You may bring luggage, bicycles, and personal items on board. Pets are allowed in vehicles but not in passenger cabins unless they are service animals. The ferry has a snack bar and restrooms, but bringing your own food and water is cheaper and ensures you have what you want during the crossing.

What Happens When You Board

When you arrive at the terminal, drive to the ticket window or check-in area if you have not already purchased a ticket. Staff will scan your confirmation number or issue a ticket if you are buying on-site. They will direct you to a lane where you will wait with your vehicle until boarding begins.

For walk-on passengers, you will go through a security screening similar to airport security, then wait in a passenger lounge until the ferry is ready to board. Once boarding starts, vehicles drive onto the car deck in the order they were lined up. Walk-on passengers board through a separate entrance.

Once on board, vehicle passengers can stay in their cars or leave them to go up to the passenger decks. The ferry has an upper deck with seating, a snack bar, and outdoor viewing areas. The crossing takes 85 minutes, so many people leave their vehicles to stretch and enjoy the view of the Delaware Bay.

Cancellations and Weather Delays

The ferry operates in most weather conditions, but severe storms, high winds, or dense fog can cause cancellations or delays. The Delaware River and Bay Authority monitors weather and makes cancellation decisions, usually a few hours before a scheduled sailing.

If your sailing is cancelled, you can rebook on the next available sailing at no extra charge. If you need to cancel your reservation yourself, policies vary depending on how far in advance you booked and what type of ticket you purchased. Check the cancellation policy on your confirmation email or call the ticket office to understand your options.

During winter months, sailings are less frequent and weather delays are more common. If you are traveling in winter, build extra time into your schedule and check the forecast before you leave home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stay in my car during the crossing?

Yes, you can stay in your vehicle the entire time, but most passengers leave their cars to go to the upper decks. The passenger areas have better views, seating, and access to food and restrooms. Your car is find on the car deck, and you can return to it whenever you want.

What if I miss my sailing?

If you have a reservation and miss your sailing, contact the ticket office as soon as possible. Depending on the time of year and availability, they may rebook you on a later sailing. If you paid for a specific time slot, you may lose that fare, but policies vary. Call ahead if you think you will be late.

Are there restaurants or shops on the ferry?

The ferry has a snack bar that sells sandwiches, snacks, drinks, and coffee. Prices are higher than you would pay on land. There are no shops, but you can use restrooms and sit in climate-controlled passenger areas. Bringing your own food is cheaper and gives you more options.

Do I need a reservation, or can I just show up?

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially from May through September and on holiday weekends. During these times, sailings fill up and walk-ups may not get a spot. Off-season and weekday sailings are less crowded, but booking ahead is still the safest choice.

What is the difference between the Cape May and Lewes terminals?

Both terminals operate the same ferry service and have similar facilities. The Cape May terminal is in New Jersey; the Lewes terminal is in Delaware. Choose your departure point based on which state you are starting in. Both have ticket windows, parking, and waiting areas.