Cape May–Lewes Ferry Terminal - Image 1
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Cape May Lewes Ferry Terminal

4.6
·284 reviews·Lower Township, United States

A scenic 85-minute ferry ride across the Delaware Bay, connecting Cape May, NJ, and Lewes, DE, with enjoyable terminal amenities.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, smoother boarding

CrowdLow
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Cape May–Lewes Ferry Terminal - Image 1

Cape May Lewes Ferry Terminal

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, smoother boarding

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic 85-minute ferry ride across the Delaware Bay, connecting Cape May, NJ, and Lewes, DE, with enjoyable terminal amenities.

4.6
(284 reviews)

"The ferry ride was absolutely gorgeous, the view was breathtaking and the ride was smooth."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park with Ease

Ample parking is available at both terminals. For mini-golf, you'll need to leave your ID at the front desk to borrow clubs and balls.

🐶 Pet-Friendly Travel

Well-behaved pets are welcome on the ferry, with designated areas. Check specific rules before you go.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Delaware Bay Crossing

Scenic Delaware Bay Crossing

Delaware Bay

Enjoy breathtaking views of the bay, coastline, and potential wildlife sightings like dolphins on this 85-minute journey.

Terminal Amenities & Activities

Terminal Amenities & Activities

Cape May and Lewes Terminals

Explore gift shops, enjoy a meal at the restaurant, or let kids burn energy at the playground and mini-golf.

Relaxing Alternative to Driving

Relaxing Alternative to Driving

Cape May to Lewes

Save time and avoid traffic by taking the ferry, offering a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Ferry Tickets in Advance

While walk-up tickets are sometimes available, booking your Cape May-Lewes Ferry tickets online ahead of time is highly recommended, especially during peak season. This ensures you secure your desired sailing time and avoid potential disappointment. Check the official website for the most up-to-date schedules and pricing.

Arrive Early for a Smooth Boarding Experience

To ensure a stress-free journey, aim to arrive at the ferry terminal at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure. This allows ample time for check-in, parking your vehicle, and navigating the terminal facilities. Arriving early also gives you a chance to enjoy the amenities before setting sail.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, smoother boarding
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon Sunsets
Why
Beautiful golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, but busy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal Concerts are Cutie Approved! 🍊 Tips for grown-ups: 🍊Wednesday night concerts are free! There are Adirondack chairs available, but bring chairs / blankets just in case! 🍊Concert starts at 5:30. 🍊Free miniature golf! Putters are available to borrow until 5:30. Bring your own putter/balls if planning to arrive after 5:30. #capemaycuties #capemay #kidfriendly...
cape_may_cuties
501 likes • 20.3K views

🚗 Park with Ease

Ample parking is available at both terminals. For mini-golf, you'll need to leave your ID at the front desk to borrow clubs and balls. Reddit

🐶 Pet-Friendly Travel

Well-behaved pets are welcome on the ferry, with designated areas. Check specific rules before you go.

Cape May Lewes Ferry Terminal March 2025 #capemay #capemaylewesferry
loudandlocaladventures
0 likes • 1.2K views
Rocking the Docks concert series for 2025 kicks off June 8 with a charity partnership benefiting the Fourth Street Preserve by @osa_lewes. The concert on June 8 next to the Cape May Lewes Ferry Terminal in Lewes has The Funsters headlining. The event organizers expanded the Rocking the Rocks series to 17 shows this year, including another partnership later this summer with @unlockethelight V...
capegazette
157 likes • 6.6K views

🍔 Onboard Dining Options

Grab a bite at the Lido Bar or enjoy snacks and drinks while taking in the views. Reddit

⛳ Free Mini Golf Fun

Enjoy a round of free mini-golf at the terminal before or after your ride. Just swap your ID for equipment! Reddit

Located at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal, Stowaways offers a convenient and delightful escape for travelers and locals alike. Whether you’re hopping off a ferry or simply seeking a serene waterfront spot, their scratch kitchen, relaxed atmosphere, and live music make every visit memorable 🍻 Indoor and outdoor seating available!
dotheshore
157 likes • 20.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park with Ease

Ample parking is available at both terminals. For mini-golf, you'll need to leave your ID at the front desk to borrow clubs and balls. Reddit

🐶 Pet-Friendly Travel

Well-behaved pets are welcome on the ferry, with designated areas. Check specific rules before you go.

🍔 Onboard Dining Options

Grab a bite at the Lido Bar or enjoy snacks and drinks while taking in the views. Reddit

⛳ Free Mini Golf Fun

Enjoy a round of free mini-golf at the terminal before or after your ride. Just swap your ID for equipment! Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The ferry ride offers fantastic photo opportunities of the bay and coastline. Don't forget your camera!

What Travellers Say

4.6
(284 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Travelers consistently praise the Cape May-Lewes Ferry for its scenic and relaxing 85-minute journey across the Delaware Bay, often highlighting it as a pleasant alternative to driving. The terminals offer enjoyable amenities like playgrounds and free mini-golf, and the staff are frequently commended for their friendly and professional service. While generally positive, some visitors note that booking in advance is crucial during peak times to avoid disappointment.

"Carol at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal provided such friendly, polite, and professional customer service and made you feel so welcome.
Positive interactions with staff like Carol, coupled with a clean and organized facility, truly make a difference in the overall travel experience. It's great to know your visit was a positive one, and that you'll be back!
⛴️ About the Cape May-Lewes Ferry
Your positive review aligns with the general reputation of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, which is often highlighted for:
* Scenic Ride: The 85-minute trip across the Delaware Bay is often described as a relaxing and enjoyable alternative to driving around the bay, with opportunities for viewing sunsets and even dolphins.
* Amenities: The ferry itself offers various seating options, including outdoor deck chairs and indoor areas with comfortable seating, along with food and drink services (like the Lido Bar).
* Terminal Experience: Both terminals (Cape May, NJ and Lewes, DE) offer amenities, with the Lewes side in particular offering easy access to the town, restaurants, and nearby attractions like Cape Henlopen State Park.
Your positive experience with the staff and the cleanliness of the terminal is a great endorsement for their operation!"

A

"Perfect spot for the kids to let out some energy before boarding. A beautiful park and play area for them. There is a mini golf course, you get the putter and balls from the front desk. There is a dog park. Many places to sit and enjoy the views. Extremely clean and well kept."

Bella McCloskey

"The ferry from Cape May to Lewes was absolutely gorgeous, the view was breathtaking and the ride was smooth. Definitely recommend taking the ride once."

Brittney Gdovin

What People Like

Scenic bay views
Relaxing journey
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cape May terminal is located at 1200 Lincoln Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204. The Lewes terminal is at 43 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE 19958. TikTok

The address for the Cape May ferry terminal is 1200 Lincoln Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204. Reddit

The Lewes Ferry Terminal is easily accessible by car. It's located at 43 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE 19958, with clear signage directing you from major roadways. Reddit

Yes, ample parking is available at the Cape May ferry terminal. You can park your vehicle there before boarding the ferry. Reddit

Yes, the Lewes ferry terminal offers convenient parking for passengers. It's a good idea to arrive early during busy periods to secure a spot. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ferry ticket prices vary based on vehicle size and passenger count. It's best to check the official Cape May-Lewes Ferry website for the most current pricing information. Booking in advance is recommended. Reddit

While walk-up tickets may be available, booking your Cape May-Lewes Ferry tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to guarantee your spot and preferred sailing time. Reddit

The ferry operates on a seasonal schedule, with more frequent sailings during the summer months. It's essential to check the official Cape May-Lewes Ferry website for the most up-to-date operating hours and sailing times. Reddit

Yes, well-behaved pets are generally allowed on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. There are designated areas for pets, and it's always a good idea to confirm their specific pet policy before your trip. Reddit

When boarding, you may need to present the ID of the person who purchased the ticket, especially if you booked online. This helps verify your reservation. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Cape May terminal offers a gift shop, a restaurant/bar (Lido Bar), and a playground for children. There's also free mini-golf available by exchanging your ID for equipment. Reddit

The ferry provides various seating options, including indoor and outdoor areas. You can also purchase food and drinks from the onboard concessions. Reddit

The ferry ride across the Delaware Bay from Cape May to Lewes (or vice versa) takes approximately 85 minutes. Reddit

Based on traveler feedback, the bathrooms on the ferry are generally reported as clean and well-maintained. Reddit

The views from the ferry are often described as breathtaking, offering scenic vistas of the Delaware Bay, coastline, and potentially wildlife. It's a highlight for many passengers. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a restaurant and bar, known as the Lido Bar, at the Cape May ferry terminal where you can purchase food and drinks. Reddit

Yes, food and drink concessions are available onboard the ferry, allowing you to purchase refreshments during your 85-minute journey. Reddit

Lewes, Delaware, is a charming town with numerous dining options easily accessible from the ferry terminal, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The outdoor decks offer unobstructed views of the bay and coastline, making them ideal for photography. Capture the sunrise or sunset for dramatic shots. Reddit

Yes, keep an eye out for dolphins and seabirds. The open water provides opportunities for wildlife photography, though sightings are not guaranteed. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always wise to be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is a fantastic option for families. The playground at the Cape May terminal is a huge hit, giving kids a chance to run around before boarding. The free mini-golf is another fun activity that keeps younger travelers entertained. The 85-minute ferry ride itself can be an adventure, with plenty of space to move around and enjoy the views. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, though concessions are available onboard. Reddit

Many parents find the ferry a more relaxed alternative to a long car drive, especially when traveling between the Jersey Shore and Delaware beaches. The ability to get out of the car and enjoy the open air and scenery is a major plus. The clean facilities and friendly staff also contribute to a stress-free family outing. Reddit

🚗 Budget Travelers

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry can be a cost-effective way to travel between Southern New Jersey and Delaware, especially when you factor in the time and potential gas savings compared to driving around the bay. While there is a fee for vehicles and passengers, it often shaves off significant driving time, which can translate to savings on fuel and wear and tear on your car. Reddit

To maximize savings, consider traveling during off-peak times or weekdays when rates might be lower. Taking advantage of the free mini-golf and enjoying the scenic views are excellent ways to get value without extra cost. Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help reduce onboard expenses. Reddit

🐶 Pet Owners

Traveling with your furry friend? The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is a pet-friendly option! Well-behaved dogs are generally welcome to travel with their owners. There are designated areas on the ferry for pets, allowing them to enjoy the ride alongside you. It's always a good idea to check the ferry's specific pet policy before your trip to ensure you're aware of any leash requirements or other guidelines. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ferry Experience: More Than Just a Crossing

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is more than just a way to get from point A to point B; it's an experience in itself. The 85-minute journey across the Delaware Bay offers a unique perspective of the coastline and a relaxing escape from highway driving. Many travelers highlight the scenic beauty of the ride, with opportunities to spot dolphins and enjoy stunning sunsets. The ferry provides a comfortable environment with various seating options, including outdoor decks perfect for soaking in the views and indoor areas for those who prefer to relax away from the elements. Reddit

Beyond the ride itself, the terminals offer amenities that enhance the overall visit. The Cape May terminal boasts a playground and free mini-golf, making it a great spot for families to let kids burn off energy before boarding. The Lewes terminal provides easy access to the charming town of Lewes, Delaware, with its shops, restaurants, and proximity to Cape Henlopen State Park. This makes the ferry a convenient gateway to exploring both New Jersey and Delaware's coastal attractions. Reddit

Travelers often praise the friendly and professional staff, noting their positive impact on the overall experience. From helpful ticket agents to courteous crew members, the human element significantly contributes to the ferry's appeal. This focus on customer service, combined with the scenic journey and convenient amenities, solidifies the Cape May-Lewes Ferry as a memorable travel option. Reddit

Making the Most of Your Terminal Visit

Both the Cape May and Lewes ferry terminals are designed to be more than just waiting areas; they offer activities and conveniences that can make your trip more enjoyable. At the Cape May terminal, families will appreciate the dedicated playground, allowing children to play and expend energy before the ferry ride. For a bit of fun, there's also free mini-golf. To play, you simply need to visit the front desk, provide your ID, and you'll receive the putter and balls. Your ID is returned once you bring the equipment back. Reddit

The terminals also feature gift shops where you can pick up souvenirs or travel essentials. For those looking to grab a bite or a drink, there are food and beverage options available, including the Lido Bar on the ferry itself. This ensures you can stay refreshed and satisfied throughout your journey. The overall cleanliness and organization of the facilities are frequently mentioned as positive aspects by visitors, contributing to a pleasant pre-boarding experience. Reddit

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