Cape May Lewes Ferry Terminal
A scenic 85-minute ferry ride connecting Cape May, NJ, and Lewes, DE, offering bay views, pet-friendly decks, and terminal events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Sunset views & live music
Cape May Lewes Ferry Terminal
Best Time
Sunset views & live music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 85-minute ferry ride connecting Cape May, NJ, and Lewes, DE, offering bay views, pet-friendly decks, and terminal events.
"It was a gorgeous day. When we arrived at Cape May NJ, Dolphins were in abundance."
🐾 Pet-Friendly Travel
Leashed pets are welcome on outdoor decks! Great for dog owners wanting a scenic trip .
🎶 Free Wednesday Concerts
Enjoy free live music at the terminal on Wednesday evenings during concert series .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Delaware Bay Crossing
Across the Delaware Bay
Enjoy an 85-minute scenic cruise with stunning bay views, perfect for spotting dolphins or simply relaxing.
Lewes, Delaware Charm
Lewes, Delaware
Explore the quaint coastal town of Lewes, known for its beaches, shops, and delicious seafood.
Cape May, New Jersey Vistas
Cape May, New Jersey
Discover the Victorian charm of Cape May, with its beautiful beaches and historic architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Pet-Friendly Passage
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🐾 Pet-Friendly Travel
Leashed pets are welcome on outdoor decks! Great for dog owners wanting a scenic trip.
🎶 Free Wednesday Concerts
Enjoy free live music at the terminal on Wednesday evenings during concert series.
🚗 Vehicle Transport
Bring your car aboard for easy travel between NJ and DE. Book ahead for busy times.
🚲 Bike Racks Available
Cyclists can utilize free bike racks at the pedestrian entrance. Great for exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Pet-Friendly Travel
Leashed pets are welcome on outdoor decks! Great for dog owners wanting a scenic trip.
🎶 Free Wednesday Concerts
Enjoy free live music at the terminal on Wednesday evenings during concert series.
🚗 Vehicle Transport
Bring your car aboard for easy travel between NJ and DE. Book ahead for busy times.
🚲 Bike Racks Available
Cyclists can utilize free bike racks at the pedestrian entrance. Great for exploring.
☕ Onboard Cafe & Bar
Grab coffee, snacks, or a drink at the onboard cafe and bar. Cash may be needed for some purchases.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers generally praise the Cape May-Lewes Ferry for its scenic views, clean vessels, and friendly atmosphere, making it a relaxing escape. The pet-friendly policy and onboard amenities are also frequently highlighted as positives. However, some visitors find the ticket prices to be a bit high, and a few have encountered less-than-ideal customer service experiences at the ticket gates.
"Lovely experience, best chicken tenders I have had in a while (it came with four) and I felt very safe on this ferry. Amazingly clean and well mannered, and just a fun atmosphere!"
max
"We arrived 10 minutes prior to the ferry’s departure. I purchased my ticket, the wait was too long for the next ferry. We hung out for a while. Grain On The Rocks is located in the terminal, there is an outdoor Dogfish Head Beer Garden. The indoor and outdoor waiting areas are clean, comfortable and covered. Pets are allowed on the ferry. Free parking and bike racks are at the Pedestrian Entrance to Ferry Terminal, just south of toll booths. You can also arrive by boat and dock for free. We returned for the ferry ride. It was a gorgeous day. When we arrived at Cape May NJ, Dolphins were in abundance. The employees are friendly and professional, the vessel is well kept and clean. This is a great relaxing escape!"
Island Gurl Dat
"I enjoyed the boat ride, but it was pricey. $60 This was my first time coming to one of these, so I didn't know what to do. I told this to the lady at the gate. And she wanted me to explain how I got their. I told her Google maps. She had a nasty attitude to me and said I shouldn't have come here without reservations. The boat wasn't even half full when it left. So RUDE."
joey jacobs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal in New Jersey is located at 1200 Lincoln Blvd, North Cape May, NJ. In Delaware, it's at 43 Cape Henlopen Drive, Lewes, DE. You can drive directly to either terminal and park.
Yes, you can absolutely take the ferry as a walk-on passenger. This is a popular option for day trips to explore the towns on either side.
While specific public transport options vary, many visitors drive or use ride-sharing services. Some sources mention shuttle services from the Delaware terminal to nearby outlets.
If you're heading to the outlets in Delaware, there's often a shuttle service available from the Lewes Ferry Terminal to the shopping areas.
Yes, you can arrive by boat and dock for free at the ferry terminal. This is a unique option for boat owners [^Reviews].
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ferry ticket prices vary depending on whether you're a walk-on passenger or bringing a vehicle. A van and 10 passengers cost around $47 total, while a single passenger might pay around $37 [^Reviews]. It's best to check the official website for current pricing.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for vehicles and during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid long waits. Some visitors have encountered long waits for the next ferry if they didn't book ahead.
The ferry operates on a seasonal schedule. It's advisable to check the official Cape May-Lewes Ferry website for the most up-to-date operating hours and sailing times.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, keep an eye on their website for potential promotions or special event packages. Wednesday night concerts at the terminal are often free.
If you miss your scheduled ferry, you may need to wait for the next available sailing. Some travelers have reported being told to wait for the next ferry if they arrived close to departure time [^Reviews].
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Both terminals offer amenities like restaurants, cafes, gift shops, and waiting areas. The Cape May terminal often hosts live music and events, including free Wednesday concerts.
Yes, pets are welcome on the ferry but must be leashed and are only allowed on the outdoor decks.
Yes, there is free parking available at both ferry terminals, including designated bike racks at the pedestrian entrance in Cape May [^Reviews].
The ferry features comfortable seating (including push-back seats), a gift shop, a cafe with snacks and coffee, and a bar on the second floor [^Reviews].
Absolutely! The ferry is very bike-friendly, with dedicated racks for bicycles. It's a great way to explore both Cape May and Lewes.+1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, both terminals have dining options. 'Grain On The Rocks' and 'On the Rocks Dockside Grill' are located at the terminals, offering waterfront dining and beer gardens [^Reviews].
The ferry has a small cafe offering coffee and snacks. Some reviews mention the chicken tenders as a surprisingly good option [^Reviews].
Yes, there is a bar on the second floor of the ferry where you can purchase drinks. Some events may require cash for onboard purchases.
In Lewes, 'Grain on the Rocks' has a dog-friendly patio, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with your pet after arriving via ferry.
Stowaways Cafe, located at the Cape May terminal, offers coffee, seasonal drinks like Pumpkin Spice Lattes, and specials like 'Crush Monday' with $6 Orange Crushes.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire ferry ride offers fantastic photo opportunities, from the expansive Delaware Bay views to potential dolphin sightings. Sunsets over the bay are particularly stunning.
Yes, the ferry ride itself provides excellent vantage points for sunset photos over the Delaware Bay. Restaurants at the terminal, like 'On the Rocks Dockside Grill', also offer great sunset views.
Many passengers report seeing dolphins during the ferry crossing, making it a great opportunity for wildlife photography [^Reviews].
Golden hour, both in the morning and evening, offers beautiful light for photography. Sunset is particularly popular for its dramatic colors.
You can capture views of the East End Lighthouse, Cape Henlopen Point, and the general coastline of both New Jersey and Delaware during the scenic cruise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Onboard, there's a cafe for snacks and drinks, and the terminals often have restaurants and sometimes even free miniature golf during events.
The terminals themselves can be destinations, with outdoor seating and views that kids will enjoy. It's a great way to break up a road trip or enjoy a fun day out exploring new beach towns.🐶 Pet Owners
Upon arrival in Lewes, Delaware, you can even head to 'Grain on the Rocks' which features a dog-friendly patio, perfect for enjoying a meal with your pet while watching the sunset over the bay.
🚲 Cyclists
Whether you're planning a leisurely ride on the boardwalks or a more adventurous exploration of state parks, the ferry provides a seamless connection. It's an excellent way to combine a boat trip with an active outdoor adventure, making your travel experience more dynamic and enjoyable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ferry Experience: More Than Just a Crossing
Onboard, you'll find amenities like a gift shop, a cafe serving coffee and snacks, and a bar on the second floor [^Reviews]. For those traveling with pets, the ferry is dog-friendly, allowing leashed animals on the outdoor decks, making it a perfect outing for the whole family.
+1Whether you're heading to explore the charming streets of Lewes, Delaware, or the Victorian beauty of Cape May, New Jersey, the ferry provides a unique and enjoyable way to travel. It's a popular choice for day-trippers, cyclists, and even those looking for a mini-cruise experience without leaving the coast.
Events and Activities at the Terminals
These events often feature live music, and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets. Miniature golf is also sometimes available for free during these events.Beyond the regular concert series, the terminals can host special events like 'Cruises to Nowhere' with live music, offering a unique evening on the water.
'On the Rocks Dockside Grill' at the Lewes terminal provides a scenic spot to enjoy food and drinks, especially during sunset.These events add significant value to a visit, transforming a simple ferry trip into a fuller entertainment experience. Checking the ferry's official schedule and social media pages is the best way to stay informed about upcoming events and activities at both terminals.
Cycling and Outdoor Adventures
In Lewes, Delaware, the ferry terminal is a gateway to exploring the Delaware coastline. You can easily access beaches, state parks like Cape Henlopen State Park, and the town's quaint streets. Many visitors use the ferry as part of a larger cycling tour or a day trip focused on outdoor activities.
For those who enjoy active travel, combining the ferry with a bike ride offers a unique and memorable way to experience the Jersey Shore and Delaware beaches. It's an eco-friendly and enjoyable alternative to driving the entire distance.
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