Rating: Incomplete As the Lewes-Rehoboth Beach area becomes an off season short vacation spot for us, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry becomes a very interesting alternative route there from Bucks County, PA. The drive to Cape May takes about two hours, and the ferry with wait time embarking, disembarking and traversing Delaware Bay, another three; the time comparison is not favorable to just driving there directly. However, there is something to be said for taking a short cruise for its potential for relaxation and obvious uniqueness, and the option of spending time in Cape May, which remains more charming than the southern terminus and certainly worth your attention. Too, off-season pricing is very reasonable at $22 per car and $6 per person; making the value proposition outstanding. So, our solution for next year is to make the run by going to beautiful Victorian Cape May for a few days before catching the CMLF across to Lewes, and spending a few more days down there for crabs, fish and more exploration down the Delaware coast. We will decide then whether to drive or ferry home. The Lewes terminal is a comfortable place to hang out for a while, answer questions about the ferry and grab a drink/lunch at Grains, the in house restaurant overlooking the bay and ferry operations. We found our hour there worthwhile and fun. More to come as we fulfill our plan. 5 Star potential! read more

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My husband and I, had such an amazing time. It was a very cold afternoon, but that didn't stop the vibes. The tickets, including our vehicle to board was a steal of a price . The process from check in, to parking on the ferry was simple. The ferry had ample seating inside . Note, if you want booth seats, you have to try to be the first ones in. The ferry was very warm, and cozy . On the ferry there is hot food , all type of drinks, and plenty of snacks to purchase. It's lots to see on the deck, although I did not stay outside to long as it was cold. I can't wait to return for the summer. read more

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Bought my tickets online drove up and parked. Got there a little early but was able to head inside, nice area to sit, eat, and wait. When it was time, they called us up for the vehicle inspection and then we drove onto the ferry for the ride. On the way back, we decided to change our reservations, so we drove to the ticket booth. The staff was super friendly and easily put us on the next outbound trip. Overall, a smooth process and a great ride! read more

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A very nice ride! It saves you from driving an hour or more up the Delaware coast and gives you some tranquility instead. Very nice people greet you upon arriving and even joke with you as they escort your car through to the ship. The guy was suggesting that they had a dingy for my car because the ship was full. He just barely fit us into the earlier ship which was great. The crew was friendly and attentive as we got some breakfast for the trip back home. It was a fantastic trip to Delaware. read more

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Love love love -my hubby and I decided to take this Ferry to cut his driving time to New Jersey and it was definitely worth it. It was a beautiful sunny morning so imagine the sea breeze in the air -the silence of the ocean, the Pelicans flying in sequence and the dolphins pop up to gives us a show how lucky we were. The Ferry itself was clean they had a snack stand with hot breakfast sandwiches to healthy yogurt parfait, very good coffee, drinks from juices to sodas. On the top level they have a full bar ( too bad it was in the AM and we had to drive ). The Ferry has plenty of seating but most were just standing and looking at the beautiful site. Next visit to Delaware we will definitely take the Ferry going and returning read more

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Been riding the ferry for 25 years - still the BEST way to get to Atlantic City/Jersey Shore from points south! (MD, VA, NC). Thanks y'all! read more

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This was a great experience. It was only about 50.00, 2 adults and a dog. The ferry terminal was fantastic, tourism info, a cafe with coffee and snacks, a full bar and a concert venue. Boarding was orderly and efficient. First on first off. The passage itself was beautiful. The ferry has a bar and snacks, restrooms, plenty of space inside.and out. We saw jumping fish and dolphins and sea birds. Exiting was simply and easy. The employees were great and efficient. This was a great adventure. read more

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I've taken this ferry a few times and it's a good time! The boarding process is easy and it's about $50 per car. My fella and dog ride with me and we spend the ride enjoying the views on the top deck or inside the main cabin, where well behaved dogs are allowed in the areas away from food. One word of advice, advance tickets are required and they do sell out, even at less popular times of year for travel. The town of Lewes is cute and has some good options for lunch before or after the ferry, but there is also food at the terminal and on the boat. read more

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A very good option to go to ocean city if you are traveling from NJ ... kids liked it too. It is about an hour and 15 mins sail from cape May to Ocean city MD . Easy booking ... costed ok - we paid about 37$ for our van and 10$ per person . Ferry had lots of seats inside and outside the deck . I really liked the push back seats .. very comfortable . They also have a gift shop and a small cafe with coffee and some snacks . There is also a bar on the 2nd floor. Very organized . Very comfortable . Had to wait an hour to board .. restaurants inside the ferry terminal weren't that good . Overall a good experience... read more

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Made up of three vessels - the MV Delaware, MV New Jersey, and MV Cape Henlopen - the ferry is a super simple choice to save a 3- or 4-hour drive if you are on either side of the service points. Obviously you might already be located near a service point, but if you are not, this is still a great option for some road trips to either avoid the DC area when making the coastal North South run or perhaps to get to the DE beaches with a stop in AC or Cape May if you are coming in from NJ. Booking online is super easy. Per the website, "Reservations are required and crossings frequently sell out throughout the summer." The recent I-95 collapse in Northeast Philadelphia isn't going to help to plan any last minute ideas. The process itself is pretty flawless. You check in, show ID, and wait. You need to be there at least 30 minutes before boarding, and I would get there an hour ahead of time. You can leave your car, assuming you are driving, while you wait and go inside and relax (which I have never done). Otherwise, drive on board, leave your car, and find a comfortable spot to enjoy the trip. The few times I have taken it the waters were always smooth except for the last time when there was a gentle roll. I am sure there are times when it gets a lot more rough, but I cannot imagine they would run under truly bad conditions, so you need to take that into account as well for planning. read more

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I travel on the ferry often. Staff is always personable. But today I was greeted by Harry he made my trip so enjoyable. He was friendly to everyone and a breath of fresh air to be around. Thanks Harry read more

There's plenty to do on the Lewes side of the ferry line at the terminal. I arrived about an hour and a half early after running out of all the touristy things I wanted to see in Lewes and this gave me plenty of time to be first in line for the next ferry and park to explore. The terminal has a gift shop, full sit-down restaurant, patio bar overlooking the docks, playground, dog walking area and several historic markers that point out some of the important sites. The restrooms here are clean and plentiful. The Unknown Sailors' Cemetery historic marker is here and it gave me pause, "Lewes has been a Port-of-Call and a Harbor-of-Refuge since the 17th century. For generations during the ages of sail, a public burial ground in this immediate locality became the final resting place for hundred of sailors who lost their lives and whose unidentified bodies were here cast ashore. In remembrance of those persons whose remains are sheltered on this shore, this memorial is placed. May they find eternal repose." The "Lewes-Maritime History Trail" is a boardwalk that extends for a bit around the harbor. There are markers for the "Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse" and the "Delaware Breakwater East End Lighthouse" and of course, a great view. While waiting, I enjoyed a cold beer at the outside bar and watched the incoming ferry arrive. As it started boarding, I headed back to the van and was fortunate to be asked if I wanted to board early. Bonus! [Review 18214 overall - 126 in Delaware - 1736 of 2022.] read more

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Nothing like the ferry! Quick service at the kiosk and the ferry runs on schedule. Not a big food menu inside the ferry as you ride but nothing beats the views out of the windows! read more

Always great travel on ferry when I visit family in New Jersey. Only complaint is that when pulling car onto ferry they take no consideration for handicapped people who will need space to exit their car once on the Ferry. I hang my handicap tag on mirror and stop to explain to associate directing where to park and end up getting attitude instead of help. read more

I used to live in NJ. I used to take the car ferry to vacation with my family in Ocean City, Maryland many years ago. In 2021 I took the walkon ferry from Cape May to view homes in Delaware, when I decided to move from NJ to Delaware. My realtor picked me up from the ferry to view over many homes until I finally bought one. I finally closed on my new home in Delaware in September 2021. Most recently I took my Audi on the car ferry to visit my family, relatives and friends, who still live in NJ. A standard vehicle under 20 feet costs between $25 to $32. Larger vehicles cost more. Passengers cost $6-$8 per person. The car ferry is very convenient compared to driving from Delaware to northern NJ or NYC, which takes much longer or almost 5 hours. They partially renovated the four car ferries namely the Delaware, New Jersey, Cape May and Cape Henlopen. They plan to replace these four older large car ferries with four smaller car ferries. The ferries have lots of staff to keep the ferries clean. You can purchase food, drinks, or gift items from their gift shops. All car ferries have at least two bars including one inside near the food court and one outside on the upper outside deck. Two armed police officers maintain the peace on the ferries. The Cape May and Lewes ferry terminals have free parking lots if you want to travel on the ferries without your vehicle as walk-ons. Walk-ons must go through a security checkpoint. The two story terminals also have elevators, brochures, restrooms, restaurants, full bars and coffee/snack shops. They also have outdoor seating. Overall I like the car ferries, because they are convenient and enjoyable especially during the warmer weather when you can hang out on the outside decks. read more

For nice ride. I'm impressed with how professional and orderly everything went. The crew and associates know what they are doing. Car is put on and off in an orderly fashion, and as long as you, the driver, pay attention, it is loaded quickly. We had beautiful weather and very calm water. Absolutely wonderful. read more

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When I was younger, I rode this ferry into Delaware from New Jersey when I went with my family to Bethany Beach. The last time I rode it, it was 1999. 21 years later, it is still a fantastic ride. It is well organized and a beautiful ride, only 85 minutes. You can see dolphins, crabs, and enjoy seeing some beautiful surf. It is the perfect amount of time. Too little time would make it not worth it. Too much time would make it boring. It also helps they allow you to bring your furry friends on board too! It is not the cheapest option, but what you make up in driving is a relaxing and pleasant ride across the Delaware Bay. Just plan ahead because they book fast in the summer months! I hope to take this ferry again in the future. While it is expensive to do it all the time, this special treat is worth doing when you can, so do it! read more

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First time taking the ferry to Cape May NJ. Easy onboarding process (walk on passengers). Gift shop and concessions are reasonably priced with a bar and monitors around the passenger area. read more

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Took my car with me to Cape May from the Lewes ferry terminal. This terminal was nice. Good views to watch the water. We saw a few dolphins close up :) There is a bar/restaurant, but it was closed when we arrived. Easy process of bringing your car/passengers onboard. Just show your pre-paid tickets and they scan them. You will be placed in marked Lines for your car to drive/board onto the ferry. You have to be back in line with your car about15-20 minutes before the ferry departs so they can get the cars on board. Security does come to check your tickets, you must open your trunk (I guess for them to see if there's a stowaway there). Police station is right next to the ferry. AVIS and another rental car company is also available to rent here once you arrive. A small coffee shop was open for pastries and such on a Tuesday morning. read more

BEWARE - this ferry has no police on the ferry for security of your person or property. People are not disciplined, not courteous and unruly. Potentially violent. The potentially violent can occur because there is no inspection of backpacks nor a comprehensive check of car trunks (just a pop the trunk and quick look). No inspection of under car for possible explosives for vehicles residing on ferry. There are no metal detectors for weapons. The only ID checks are for the driver of the vehicle not the passengers in the vehicle. Children are unattended by parents more interested in getting their drinks than minding their children. Staff does not do anything about it. You are on your own. The dolphin tours had more eyes on their audience and actually did something to control the children on their boats. I would remember taking a scenic drive in the beautiful country instead of being stuck on a ferry with folks that have trouble dealing with themselves let alone others. Not doing this again! read more

Very pretty place - a great restaurant on site, plus a small gift shop. Boarding was down to a science and everyone we encountered was friendly. No Coast Guards on board like our first Cape May leg, but one cop. A bit choppy waters had me a bit nauseous but thankfully the Dramamine with lunch afteaes helped. read more

I love the Ferry! Does it save time? Not really. Is it cost effective? Not really. But it's so civilized! It breaks up a long driving trip. You can walk around, enjoy the views, relax. The people who work there are very nice. I only wish it ran even later; many times I take the last one but wish I could take a later one. This trip I took the 7pm leaving Lewes and enjoyed a gorgeous sunset. read more

Cape May-Lewes Ferry - Sunset from 7pm Lewes departure ferry - Ferries Near Me - Lewes, Delaware

DRBA does it right. They have customer service squared away when it comes to the total ferry experience. From the employees that are at the booth to greet you (always so friendly!), to the security and DRBA police who do a fantastic job keeping the ferry secure, to those employees who load the cars (always friendly and efficient!), to those who work the food court onboard (again, ALWAYS friendly!) ; I always look forward to ferry travel and so does my family. Keep it up DRBA, you guys do a phenomenal job! read more

Cape May-Lewes Ferry - Ferries Near Me - Lewes, Delaware

This made it so easy to get from DE to Cape May. We didn't have our car, just our luggage. It was easy to get to; there was a bar on board, plenty of places to sit inside or out, everyone working was real nice. The swells were pretty big on the trip over so things were rocking a little but it was only an hour and half so we all felt ok. Both ports were really nice with lots of amenities, live music, and plenty of space to wait for your ferry or Uber. read more

Taking the ferry from the beaches of Delaware to Cape May was a highlight on my road trip from Florida to Atlantic City. Not to mention a scenic view and a time saver. Call or go online to get a reservation especially if you are taking your car. I had to call and reschedule and it was a breeze on a Friday afternoon. The ferry gets full very fast on beautiful weekends. The captain and staff are terrific. It's a pleasant 90 minutes of carefree sailing! read more

Cape May-Lewes Ferry - Ferries Near Me - Lewes, Delaware

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Never had a problem here and it's a great relaxing way to get over the water to Atlantic City from Delaware. Saves about 3 hours of driving through DC/Baltimore area coming from Virginia. The ferry has free WiFi both on the ferry and at the terminal. They have bar on the top deck as well as food and a gift shop on the ferry. Price for Cars are $30 per vehicle plus $10/person. They have comfortable chairs inside with lots of power outlets and beach chairs to enjoy the sunny weather outside. Ride is normally smooth and I haven't got sick on it even though I'm super prone to sea sickness. read more

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Having lived in Maryland for 12 years of my adult life, I had always wanted to take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. I live in the Southwest now and had flown back to the D.C. area on business and extended my visit a week so I could do a fun little road trip. When we lived in MD, we regularly drove up to Atlantic City and NYC but never to Cape May and, in an effort to cross another item off my bucket list, we made a trek through Delaware and out to New Jersey on the ferry. The tickets were easy to purchase in advance and were cheap. There's a cute little terminal building before you board and the boarding process was super efficient, fast and easy. You line up in your car (you can get out and pop into the terminal for some snacks or the bathroom) and when it's time to board, you drive yourself right on the boat. I love ferries and often took the one to the Outer Banks in NC as a kid, and one of my favorite things about it was watching the sea birds trail along behind the ferry. Same thing here! There's plenty of outdoor seating that's great in nice weather. When it's chilly, there are also lots of tables and seats indoors. There's a snack bar with sodas and coffee and limited food offerings, but you can also bring your own food aboard. There isn't much of a view but it's still relaxing to watch the sun bouncing off the water. The ferry is fast, safe, and fun. Bring a book or some playing cards, bring some snacks, and sit back and relax on your water journey. read more

I am not going to sound like a broken record and repeat what all the other very smart Yelpers have already said about the Cape May - Lewes Ferry. If I can just add a few things... The Cape - May Lewes Ferry is not only good if you are visiting Atlantic City from Southern Delaware or Maryland. It is a very good way to avoid the entire traffic mess of the Washington, D.C. area if you are driving from New Jersey to southern Virginia, North Carolina, or even to Florida. GPS will not automatically recommend it, but I find it a lot more relaxing than sitting in traffic on the Capital Beltway! Just ride the ferry, then go over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel towards Virginia Beach. Then when you are on the NJ side, you can easily get to the Garden State Parkway, which is a better road. 4 Stars instead of 5 because it's still a little expensive. read more

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Such a cool & fun way to get from cape May to Delaware. The boat is huge. You wait in line before hand, drive on, park you car and then you're free to explore the boat. They have food and drinks on board as well as sunny and shady spots to sit. I loved it! read more

We have been taking the ferry for over 15 years on our way from and to Florida. From NY to AC then up in the morning for our early morning ride on ferry. It is so relaxing to know that for 75 min we have coffee and watch the birds follow the ferry, sometime play cards, or just read. If you're lucky enough to get the new ferry it has very nice seats, and snack bar. Decided to head to South Carolina for warmer weather Jan 2 2018 but did not know about ice. It took the ferry 20 min to get out of port going back and forth to break ice. Everyone nervous looking out windows, but clearly Captain did a great job clearing path to open water. Think twice about going on adventure in 18 degree temperatures. read more

Great way to get from one place to the other with no hassles. Very relaxing. Beautiful views. The upstairs has a cute gift shop and a great snack area. The restrooms are very clean. Would use this service again! read more

This is one of the nicest Ferry rides I've been on. I am glad I am not closer or I'd be on it every day drinking their Fresh squeezed OJ Orange Crush (screwdriver) Like, I mean in front of you fresh squeezed! Very smooth ride and nice service staff read more

I will always claim NJ as my home, although work takes me other places to stay for extended periods. When I was living in VA this was one of the most relaxing ways to go home and was a great sendoff when headed back South. There are a few different Ferries that vary in age, but they are all sturdy and can withstand some waves. It is beyond cool to watch a Thunderstorm at sea without a care in the world. "The Good" - The people you encounter while making a reservation, paying for your pass, checking your pass or taking care of you at sea... they are polite and friendly. - There is a snack bar in the terminal and on the Ferry. - You can drive, walk or rider your bike. - The fact you can make reservations online or over the phone. - The bar. - The fact they have concerts in the summer, its cool to just take the Ferry to DE and then back again after dinner... why not. - Their friends at Dogfish Head Brewery have friendly events ;) - Get there early to get a seat in the main cabin. - The occasional Dolphin sighting... its cool when you an watch them swim along the bow of the Ferry. - Same as above.. now with Whales. "The Meh" - Some folks do not have sea legs. Know this before you board... not after. "The Bad" - Nothing really bad to comment on. read more

Worth the price to cut miles off your drive when heading to DE shoreline or further. Plus you can say you did a cruise! ;) Catch it on a sunny day, you can work on your tan as the husband enjoys Dogfish beer! read more

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The Cape May - Lewes Ferry may be one of the most unrated shore attractions. I've broken down the experience below: The Boats: - They appear to be new and are kept very clean - There is ample seating indoors and out - Car parking is on the first level, you don't have to stay with your car - There is a bar and gift shop on-board - Free wifi! The Ports: - There is security- but only for walk-ons which seems kind of silly. - The ports are beautiful, very scenic - There are restaurants and bars to keep you entertained while you wait - They are not within walking distance to much- so you'll need a ride or taxi - You can rent bikes right at the Lewes Port - Free Parking for your car! Tips: - If you plan on riding the ferry alot, look into buying the pass book which has discounted fairs - Senior Citizens receive discounted tickets read more

Need a way to get to Jersey from Delaware? Going on a road trip? Don't wanna kill your miles? Cape May-Lewes Ferry is perfect for drivers and the like. For about 20 bucks, you can park your car and enjoy the ocean view while you cruise along the atlantic. Facilities are pretty clean, they offer a bar and a snack area. I had their clam chowder during my ride here and it wasn't bad. Didnt' taste like microwaved or frozen packaged food. I wish the views were more interesting or there was more to do on the boat. Otherwise this is a great alternative to getting to NJ from DE. read more

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Brilliant discovery by accident! On our way back from Virginia Beach vaca- with a stop in Ocean City MD for crab boil & Fisher's hot caramel popcorn- while driving we spotted a sign for this ferry. It was inexpensive, very pleasant, organized, ample room for cars/passengers, modern, nice break from driving, gentile 85 min ride to beautiful Cape May NJ & easy on to GSP headed to NYC/CT. See their web site for all seasonal details etc. Highly recommended & will definitely do this again! read more

We are a big fan! Last year we had a great experience even through COVID. This year we ran into some issues on our end. I made a mistake and overbooked and then we realized we couldn't take the ferry and needed a refund and it was the most easy and pleasant experience I may have ever had getting things taken care of. They offered us a few other great solutions if we were ever going to be going back that way, seeing as we were not they promptly handled it for me. read more

First timer and was a great experience. Had some coffee before departure, had some snacks otw there, and safely arrived at destination.

I love riding on them ferries! This one just goes back and forth between Cape May and Lewes. I think it is about 17 miles across the Delaware Bay, and it takes almost an hour. I love standing on the deck, feeling the slow rolling action of the waves. And the wind... it's a lot of fun. Try to score the larger, newer boats (MV Twin Capes and MV Cape May) - it's almost like a mini cruise ship! It has a restaurant and an elevator and everything! Yay! Oh, and if you are lucky, you might get to see some dolphins along side the boat. In Lewes, I recommend checking out Cape Henlopen State Park. They totally have like the best loblolly pine trees ever. They're only like the best pine tree ever. Actually, I just like saying loblolly. And going to Cape Henlopen will give you an excuse to do so. They also have cool concrete towers (for submarine spotting/triangulation) from WWII that you can climb up in. In Cape May, well, it's tourist central, but you can walk downtown and there are some cool shops. The beach ain't too much though. Oh, and there are like some pretty old Victorian houses or something, or so I've heard. Maybe I should check 'em out. But I just like to say "loblolly." read more

Cape May-Lewes Ferry - Ferries Near Me - Lewes, Delaware