A Day of Fun on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry​

Since 1964, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry has been transporting passengers and vehicles across the Delaware Bay. However, the ferry is more than just transportation! The Cape May-Lewes Ferry and its terminals in New Jersey and Delaware are destinations in their own right. 

To honor their 55th anniversary in 2019, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry has created the “55 Reasons to Ride”, a list that shares why passengers love to ride the New Jersey/Delaware ferry.

Short On Time? Pin It For Later!

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is more than just transportation. Between the wildlife sightings, the fun at the terminals, and the delicious food and drinks, the ferry is its own destination! Read about why we loved our adventure on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry and why you should add it to your travel bucket list. - Where the Wild Kids Wander #newjersey #capemay #delaware #lewes #ferrytravel #familytravel

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry hosted us for the day with complimentary passage so we could experience and share the fun the ferry has to offer. Keep reading for our own “Reasons to Ride” list below.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal Locations

There are two ferry terminals, one in New Jersey and one in Delaware.

The ferry terminal in New Jersey is located at 1200 Lincoln Boulevard, in North Cape May.

The Delaware ferry terminal is located at 43 Cape Henlopen Drive, in Lewes.

Once at the ferry terminal, follow the signs to the free parking for foot passengers. If you are bringing your car across on the boat, follow the signs to check-in at the booths.

Tickets and Reservations

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry accommodates both passengers and their vehicles. It is recommended to make reservations for your vehicle, especially on weekends and holidays, as space may be limited. Passengers without vehicles can purchase tickets ahead of time or at the terminal. Fares and schedules may differ depending on the time of year. 

Cape May-Lewes Ferry Stats

  • The Cape May-Lewes Ferry travels 17 miles between New Jersey and Delaware across the Delaware Bay
  • One-way, the crossing time is about 85 minutes
  • The ferry operates 365 days a year
  • Each ferry can hold up to 100 cars, including RVs
  • Since 1964, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry has transported more than 45 million passengers

5 Reasons We Loved Our Ride on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry

Both terminals have fun things for kids!

The good times start before you even board the ferry. Each terminal offers fun things for kids and families while waiting for their boat. 

The Cape May terminal has a free miniature golf course on site. Just ask for a putter at the customer service desk inside the terminal. In addition to mini-golf, there is a fun playground for kids. 

The Lewes terminal also has a playground, shaped like a pirate ship, of course! Next to the playground is a family-friendly beer garden, complete with giant Jenga and cornhole. 

There are plenty of food options at the terminals…

If you are looking for a meal with a view, both ferry terminals have restaurants to fill your request! On the Rocks Dockside Grill offers light fare, including soups, sandwiches, burgers, and tacos. The food was fresh, and the service was fast, even during the lunch hour rush.

In addition to On the Rocks, the Lewes terminal has the Dogfish Head beer garden, with a food truck selling beer-infused ears, as well as their signature craft brews.

…and on the boat!

If you didn’t have time to grab a bite at On the Rocks, or you are still feeling a little hungry, you are in luck. All of the ferries are equipped with a small cafe that offers light fare and snacks. In addition, there are both indoor and outdoor bars on each ferry, allowing passengers to indulge in a beer or cocktail during the voyage.

The ferries have multiple types of seating

Lounge table seating indoors on the 3rd deck
Lounge table seating indoors on the 3rd deck

If your kids are anything like ours, they never sit still! One of the best things about the Cape May-Lewes Ferries is the multitude of seating options. From benches to Adirondack chairs outside, to comfortable chairs inside, there is a seat for everyone. Seating is not assigned, so passengers are free to roam about the ship. The kids enjoyed taking in the views from every angle!

3rd deck seating with views of the bay
3rd deck seating with views of the bay
Shaded benches on the 2nd deck
Shaded benches on the 2nd deck
Adirondack chairs at the front of the boat
Adirondack chairs at the front of the boat
Comfortable seating inside the climate-controlled cabin
Comfortable seating inside the climate-controlled cabin

We also loved the table options throughout the boat. The kids were able to eat their snacks, and we were able to play a few card games while on our journey.

Table seating on the 3rd deck
Table seating on the 3rd deck

You may get to see whales, dolphins, and other wildlife!

The Delaware Bay is known for its whale and dolphin sightings. Many companies offer whale-watching tours from Cape May. As such, when you ride the ferry, you might get to see some whales and dolphins on your voyage!

Humpback whale's tail
Humpback whale’s tail

On our crossing, the captain of the ship notified the passengers of whale sightings in the area. He kept us up-to-date on their possible location. When we arrived at an area where there were two whale-watching boats, the captain stopped the ferry so we all could get a look at the whales! That was truly a unique experience.

Dorsal fins of two humpback whales
Dorsal fins of two humpback whales
Three dolphins playing by the Lewes harbor
Three dolphins playing by the Lewes harbor

Towards the end of our crossing, we saw a pod of dolphins, swimming and playing near the Lewes harbor. We couldn’t believe our luck not only see whales, but dolphins too. And of course, various sea birds joined us on our trip. We loved the ones who made a nest out of the equipment at Lewes.

Birds nest at the Lewes harbor
Birds nest at the Lewes harbor

Things to Know Before You Ride the Ferry

  • If you have an advanced reservation, make sure to check-in at the terminal desk for your ticket. You will not be able to board without it.
  • If you are bringing your car on board, you need to arrive 45 minutes to an hour before your reservation time.
  • Foot passengers start the boarding process about 20 minutes prior to departure. There is a security check with metal detectors before you board the ship.
  • You can rent bicycles at each ferry terminal. Or you can bring your own on the ferry for free.
  • There are shuttles at both terminals to bring into the central part of each town, for an additional cost. They run seasonally.
  • The Cape May-Lewes Ferry has many events both on and off the ferries. Check them out here!
  • Dogs are welcome on the ferries, and they ride for free!

Read It Now, Pin It For Later!

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is more than just transportation. Between the wildlife sightings, the fun at the terminals, and the delicious food and drinks, the ferry is its own destination! Read about why we loved our adventure on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry and why you should add it to your travel bucket list. - Where the Wild Kids Wander #newjersey #capemay #delaware #lewes #ferrytravel #familytravel
Lauren
Lauren

Lauren is the visionary behind Where the Wild Kids Wander. She is a travel enthusiast who lives outside of Philadelphia. For more than a decade, she's been hitting the road, exploring the nooks and crannies of the United States alongside her family. Her passions include visiting big cities and small towns and trekking through nature's trails. She loves sharing those adventures with fellow travelers.