Crossing time
About 85 minutes
A scenic trip across Delaware Bay.
Delaware Bay · Lewes to North Cape May
Cape May–Lewes Ferry
Cross Delaware Bay in about 85 minutes with your car, bicycle or as a walk-on passenger—and make the journey part of the beach trip.
Original editorial illustration · Delmarva Beach Guide
Service
Daily, year-round
Sailing frequency changes by season.
Ways to travel
Drive or walk on
Cars, motorcycles, bicycles and foot passengers are welcome.
Plan ahead
Reserve before you go
Popular vehicle departures can fill.
Your first decision
Choose how you want to cross
Bring the car for a longer coastal road trip, walk on for a simple day out, or pair the sailing with a bike ride on either shore.
Cars, motorcycles & RVs
Drive aboard
Reserve a vehicle space before you go. Vehicle length, racks, trailers and other equipment can affect the booking category and fare.
Arrive at least 45 minutes before departure.
A car-free bay crossing
Walk on
Foot passengers get the same bay views and onboard amenities without bringing a vehicle. Choose departure and return sailings that fit your day.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
Ride on either shore
Bring a bicycle
Bicycles travel free with a paid passenger ticket. Bring a lock for the bike racks and read the current boarding instructions before arrival.
The bicycle is free; the passenger fare still applies.
Two shores, one route
Start at the right terminal
Both terminals have free parking, restrooms, ATMs and accessible facilities. Check in early, especially for summer weekends and holidays.
New Jersey terminal
North Cape May
1200 Lincoln Blvd.North Cape May, NJ 08204
Just north of Cape May, this is the New Jersey departure point for trips to Lewes and the Delaware beaches.
Delaware terminal
Lewes
43 Cape Henlopen DriveLewes, DE 19958
Near Cape Henlopen State Park, this terminal is a natural starting point for Lewes, Rehoboth Beach and the Delaware coast.
Before you sail
A little planning goes a long way
Sailing times, fares, weather decisions and onboard services can change. Confirm the details for your date before leaving home.
01
Arrive early
Plan on 45 minutes before departure with a vehicle and 30 minutes as a foot passenger. Build in more time for peak summer traffic.
02
Check the exact fare
Prices vary by passenger type, vehicle length, travel date and season. The booking page shows the fare for your selected trip.
03
Watch the weather
Marine operations may adjust departures for safety. Check alerts and your booking messages before leaving.
04
Request help ahead
Contact Customer Service 72 hours in advance when a passenger needs a specific accommodation.
Common questions
Ferry planning, at a glance
Start here, then use the ferry’s current schedule and passenger guidance as the final word for your trip.
Where does the Cape May–Lewes Ferry leave from?
The New Jersey terminal is at 1200 Lincoln Blvd. in North Cape May. The Delaware terminal is at 43 Cape Henlopen Drive in Lewes. Both terminals offer free parking, restrooms and accessible facilities.
How early should I arrive?
The ferry recommends arriving at least 45 minutes before departure when traveling with a vehicle and 30 minutes before departure as a foot passenger. Allow extra time during summer weekends, holidays and periods of heavy traffic.
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are recommended, especially for vehicles and popular departures. Sailing times and fares change by date and season, so use the official schedule and booking page for the trip you are planning.
Is the ferry accessible?
The terminals and ferry service include accessible routes and assistance options. Passengers who need specific accommodations should contact the ferry in advance—72 hours is preferred—at 800-643-3779.
Ferry information reviewed August 17, 2026. Schedules, fares, terminal operations, boarding rules and accessibility arrangements can change; confirm current details with the Cape May–Lewes Ferry before traveling.