55 Reasons To Sail The Cape May-Lewes Ferry

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry: 55 Years & Sailing Strong

It's Our Birthday!

On July 1, 2019, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry turned 55 years old. To celebrate, we highlighted 55 reasons people have told us the Ferry is such a great experience. Check them all out on our  Pinterest Board, but below are some of our favorites, along with some highlights from our Ferry history.
Boardwalk photos of Ocean City, MD and Ocean City, NJ

Still Going Strong

The Ferry started operations in 1964, and has sailed more than 80,000 voyages back and forth across the Delaware Bay since. Much has changed on both sides of the bay, affording travelers many new sights and experiences to discover while on a Ferry trip. At the Ferry itself, the sailing experience, although reminiscent of earlier voyages, has also been updated with new innovations from modernized terminals and automated SkyWalks to the dockside restaurants, now operated by Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen and Exit Zero Hospitality, respectively. 

But as time marches on, the Ferry is proud not only about what has changed, but also about the basics have stayed the same — a relaxing, fun travel experience that almost automatically makes it into family vacation scrapbooks.

In 2018, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry was both recognized as 1 of the 7 most scenic rides in the U.S. by Smithsonian Magazine, and inducted into the Trip Advisor Hall of Fame. 

Virtually every kind of travel enthusiast will find something they admire on a Ferry trip. Here is a list of just some of the fantastic reasons to take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry on your next adventure. 

  • Dolphin sightings along the journey

  • Sunsets over the Delaware Bay

  • Relaxation on the outside deck chairs

  • Activities for the kids such as mini golf at the Terminal

  • Sipping cocktails at the Lido Bar

  • Birdwatching on the water

  • Reconnecting with Family

  • Lighthouse Sightings

  • Experiencing one of the most scenic Ferry rides in the U.S.

picture of Pinterest Post of the #1 Reason to Experience the Ferry - It's fun!

What's to Love? Lots!

Although ferries operate throughout the U.S., they are not as common a travel experience as in Europe.  According to one UK blogger who loves ferry travel, the fact that her luggage can weigh any amount, and she can take as many bags as she wants in her car are especially nice aspects of Ferry travel; that and the fact that if you take your car onboard you never have to rent a car when you get where you’re going!

According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, there are approximately 220 ferry operators in the U.S. working out of 37 states. Washington State and Alaska rank among the best known along with New York’s Staten Island Ferry. New York and California have the largest reported fleets, but are generally passenger only commuter lines. The Cape May-Lewes ferry is unique not only because it connects New Jersey and Delaware, but also because it is among the 42 percent that carry vehicles of all sizes in addition to passengers. 

Don't Take Our Word for It

Of course, we think everyone should take the Ferry at least once to experience it, but we don’t want you to just take our word for it.  Here are a few stories and posts where others have shared their favorite reasons for experiencing Ferry travel across the Delaware Bay. 

What ‘s your special reason for taking the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, or any ferry for that matter?  Let us know by sharing your favorite experiences using the hashtag #CMLFerry55!

Find Your Reason to Sail...

Vacation Tips: Hilton Head Island

Ferry Tip: Get in a Hilton Head-space While En Route

Hilton Head, South Carolina is not only an ideal spring break destination but a go-to location for year-round vacations especially for those living in the Mid-Atlantic region. Before heading out of town, consider these tips for enjoying all that Hilton Head has to offer, and how to maximize your journey along the way.

There is no better or more scenic road trip destination than Hilton Head Island. Approximately a 10-hour drive from the Mid-Atlantic, Hilton Head is located about 100 miles south of Charleston. For those traveling from New Jersey and areas north, leave part of the trip up to the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, which accommodates vehicles of all sizes (and four-legged friends). Onboard, guests have the opportunity to stretch their legs, grab a drink, and enjoy the views of the beautiful Delaware Bay. For families traveling with children, the ferry ride becomes a memorable, fun part of the vacation and helps break up the trip for backseat commentators who can’t stop asking if you’re there yet.

As you head south, experience another unique transportation opportunity by taking the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. The 23-mile bridge–tunnel crosses over and under open waters at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia providing a direct link between Southeastern Virginia and the Delmarva Peninsula.

Three bicyclists ride on the beach
Photo Credit
Going Biking , Jon Dawson, CC BY-ND 2.0

Biking

It’s no secret that Hilton Head Island is currently the highest ranked Bicycle Friendly Community in South Carolina, which means the best way to get around is on two wheels. You can find printed maps of the more than 50 miles of public bike trails at multiple locations including Town Hall. For the adventurous types, rent a beach bike and explore the 12 miles of hard-packed beaches around the island. Even better, strap your own bikes on the back of your car. Depending on the length of your vehicle with the bike racks, the bikes are generally included free in your standard vehicle fare.

Golf course with lighthouse in background
Photo Credit
Harbour Town Golf, Hilton Head, Dan Perry,CC BY 2.0

Golfing

If you like golf, you’ll love Hilton Head. The island is home to over 30 world-class golf courses, so you’ll find what you’re looking for no matter your skill level. Want to kick the golf rust off before you arrive? Get to the Ferry early and play free mini golf. It won’t help you on the larger golf courses at Hilton Head but will put you in the spirit. Here are a few of the best public courses at beautiful locations in the Hilton Head region.

Harbour Town Golf Links: Places a premium on finesse, imagination, and shot-making rather than strength; home of a PGA event, the RBC Heritage Classic and is a bucket list course for most golfers

Hilton Head National: Located in Bluffton, just one mile from the bridges to Hilton Head Island, this course is consistently rated among the Best of Golf Advisor’s Top Courses in South Carolina. Hilton Head National is a unique 18-hole course that allows the weekend golfer to enjoy themselves while testing more skilled players.

Old South Golf Links: Another Bluffton course, dubbed “Low country Golf at its Finest,” the Old South’s rolling terrain and Intracoastal marshes allow for impressive views from the greens and greetings from a variety of wildlife–from wood storks to hawks and alligators.

Oysters on the Half Shell
Photo Credit
Quinn Dombrowski, CC BY-SA 2.0

Eats

If you’re traveling from May–October, as you begin your journey be sure to arrive at the Ferry terminal early to experience Dockside eating while enjoying the Ferry’s boardwalk and fantastic view. Nothing gets everyone relaxed well before reaching Hilton Head Island as enjoying a leisurely, casual meal while staring out at the water.

Located between Charleston and Savannah, two of the south’s best foodie towns, Hilton Head has a well-rounded mix of restaurants that are local favorites ranging from family-friendly and affordable to more sophisticated fare.

Breakfast/Brunch/Lunch

Lowcountry Backyard:

Named the #1 restaurant in South Carolina for shrimp and grits. Also, the locals eat here (so you know it’s good).

Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe:

A casual neighborhood cafe serving American breakfast all day long, as well as lunch classics. Outdoor seating allows for furry friends to tag along too.

Dinner

The Sea Shack: 

One of the Island’s top informal “made to order” seafood stops that was recently featured by Rachael Ray on her Top Places to Eat.  In the peak summer season, arrive before the 5:00 p.m. opening because there will be a line, and be sure to check the Catch of the Day specials!

Truffles Cafe: 

Located in the Sea Pines center, offers a more refined yet approachable dining experience and is well known for its grilled pimento cheese sandwich and tomato dill soup.

Shopping

For retail therapy with a view, here are a few suggestions …

Harbourtown Sea Pines:

One of the best shopping destinations in the area with a marina for you to soak up the scenery. Browse the quaint boutiques and gift shops at your leisure or rest and enjoy the fantastic views of the sea.

Shelter Cove Towne Center: 

A must-see waterside destination along Broad Creek that is not only a shopping haven but a complete experience with a variety of dining options and year-round events.

Coligny Plaza:

Considered “the downtown of Hilton Head,” and with over 60 shops, you’re bound to find something for everyone.

Hilton Head offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun, world-class golfing and exceptional dining while allowing travelers to avoid the massive crowds that invade other larger beach towns. When traveling from points north, don’t forget to add in the Cape May-Lewes Ferry in your travel plans both to start the vacation early and extend it on the ride home.

Wildlife Seen From the Ferry

Spot Whales, Dolphins, Birds and More from the Cape May – Lewes Ferry

One of the great things about a Ferry trip is the ability to see Delaware Bay wildlife from a new vantage point. On any journey, it’s not unusual to spot Shore Birds such as Osprey, Red Knots, Gannets, and Egrets, and the ferry is a favorite among Birders for spotting many of the East Coast migrating birds. In addition, the Ferry is a great way to spot whales and dolphins. Here a just a few you might frequently see:

Osprey

  • When You See Them: Spring & Summer 
  • Where You See Them: Close to shore along the Delaware Bay
  • Color: Brown and White 
  • Favorite Food: Fish 
  • Fun Fact: A family of ospreys builds their nest by the Lewes Terminal every year, and you can say hi to them as you sail by!

Bald Eagle  

  • When You See Them: Year round! 
  • Where You See Them: Nests in trees near the bay 
  • Color: Brown, with a white head 
  • Favorite Food: Fish 
  • Fun Fact: Bald Eagles can sometimes be seen swooping down by the bay and catching fish with their powerful talons.

Dolphin

  • When You See Them: Spring & Summer 
  • Where You See Them: In the bay, alongside the ferry 
  • Color: Grey
  • Favorite Food: Small fish & crustaceans 
  • Fun Fact: Dolphins can sometimes be spotted swimming alongside the ferry, and they are excellent synchronized swimmers!

Egret

  • When You See Them: Summer
  • Where You See Them: In the marshes near the ferry
  • Color: White
  • Favorite Food: Fish, insects, and shrimp
  • Fun Fact: To look for food, Egrets stir the water up with their long skinny legs!

Gannet

  • When You See Them: Spring  
  • Where You See Them: All Around the Boat! 
  • Color: White, with Orange and Black 
  • Favorite Food: Small fish and squid 
  • Fun Fact: Gannets love following behind the Ferry, and diving in to eat up the small fish in our wake!

Horseshoe Crab

  • When You See Them: Late Spring & Summer 
  • Where You See Them: Along the shoreline 
  • Color: Brown
  • Favorite Food: Clams and Mussels 
  • Fun Fact: Horseshoe crabs aren’t actually crabs! In fact, they are more closely related to spiders than they are to actual crabs.

Piping Plover

  • When You See Them: Summer 
  • Where You See Them: Scurrying along the shoreline 
  • Color: Light brown & White 
  • Favorite Food: Small insects 
  • Fun Fact: If a predator comes near their nest, adult plovers pretend to have a broken wing in order to distract the intruder away from their young.

Red Knot

  • When You See Them: Spring & Summer 
  • Where You See Them: On the shore and beaches 
  • Color: Red and light brown 
  • Favorite Food: Insects and horseshoe crab eggs 
  • Fun Fact: Red Knots take a very long trip every year, migrating from Northern Canada to the southern tip of South America.

Seal

  • When You See Them: Spring 
  • Where You See Them: In the bay and by the rocks 
  • Color: Grey or Tan
  • Favorite Food: Fish & Squid 
  • Fun Fact: There are three different types of seal in the Delaware Bay: Grey Seals, Harp Seals, and Harbor Seals.

Whale

  • When You See Them: Year Round! 
  • Where You See Them: In the bay, alongside the ferry 
  • Color: Black or Dark Grey 
  • Favorite Food: Krill & small fish
 

Take a Ride on The Wild Side!

Two Generations of RVers Take the Ferry

Canadian RVers Travel South for the Winter on the Ferry

There’s no doubt that each day after November 1, there’s an increasing chill in the air. We can measure it here at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry by the number of Canadian RVers increasingly making their way southbound. Perhaps because they have farther to travel, or more likely because it’s just colder at their home latitude, they are frequently some of our earliest snowbirds heading to warmer parts of the North American continent.

On one particular early November Monday, two of the earliest RVs to show up for the 2:30 departure out of Cape May were different generations of first time Ferry travelers from Canada, each sporting very different types of recreational vehicles.

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Canadian RVers take their Class A on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry

Snowbirder’s Class A includes a Pet Passenger

Lorne and Sue Green along with their border collie Charlie live year round in their Class A RV.  Even when at home in Manitoba, they have forsaken mortgage payments for full-time living in their truly mobile home. On this voyage, they left Canada on Sept. 28 to ride small roadways while strategically working their way toward a family wedding in Florida in late November.  

Each year, the Greens stay on the road for 182 days to enjoy various state parks throughout the United States.  For the remainder of the year, they run a mini-golf area in Manitoba.  On this trip, they visited Atlantic City just before coming down to  Cape May to cross the Delaware Bay on the Ferry.

Related Post: 10 Tips for Taking Your Dog on the Ferry

Soon after they arrived, a much smaller graphic van came on campus with Simon Bertrand from Montreal in the driver’s seat. When asked to classify the vehicle, Lorne smiled and noted that it certainly wasn’t a stealth RV, plain vans used by some RV’ers that aren’t clearly recognized at first sight as a mobile home with a resident inside.

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Canadian Class B RVer takes a first time trip on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry

Class B Makes a Splash with Colorful Graphics

Simon, found eating lunch from the Grab ‘N Go in the terminal, told us he was on a self-proclaimed sabbatical from his latest entrepreneurial venture selling Kombucha Tea. His 2001 van was updated with its fun design by a muralist friend, and now also sports solar panels on the roof for energy self-sufficiency. Lorne Green admitted he was planning a similar solar installation when he next stops in Arizona for RV refurbishments post-winter. “It makes a big difference,” Lorne stated.

Unlike the Greens, Bertrand’s voyage is a likely once-in-a-lifetime adventure, planned in three separate stages rather than one, long extended voyage. His idea is to be away for several months at a time, and fly home in between stages for holidays and other planned return visits to Quebec.

Both Bertrand and the Greens spoke of their desire for laid back fun rides that let them see nature and enjoy different views though one team is retired and the other still active in a unique career.

Thanks to both for taking the time to not only ferry across the bay with us, but give us some insights into different types of RV travel. We wish them both a warm, easy winter and hope to see them again perhaps next year!

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Walking On The Ferry For A Cause

Ferry Hosts Woman During Overdose Awareness Journey

On a rainy Friday evening, Jessie Grieb arrived at the Cape May Ferry Terminal ready to board the 6:00 p.m. Ferry to Lewes. The second of two ferries she has taken on her journey so far, it was the only shelter she would get from the rain all day.

Image
Jessie Grieb with her cart on Overdose Awareness at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry

Before arriving at the Cape May Terminal, Jessie’s travels through New York City and New Jersey had been difficult. She had to walk along the busy Garden State Parkway and run two miles with a State Trooper behind her to get back on local, safer roads. One night, she even caught poison ivy. But the memory of her brother, Brian, and her boyfriend, Christian Heekman, push her to keep walking.

On July 23, 2018, at the age of 26, Jessie began her 2,575-mile walking journey from the east coast of Maine heading south to Key West Florida. She’s driven by the desire to overcome her own addictions and help educate others about the opioid crisis and addiction–to which she lost both her brother and boyfriend. She’s aiming to arrive home to her parents in South Carolina for Christmas, and end her journey in Florida by February 2019. 

Jessie is inspired by Brett Bramble, who walked the reverse route to help overcome his addiction. With a cart handed down by Brett that is on its third transcontinental journey, Jessie averages 20 miles a day, roughly 100 miles a week and has a GoFundMe which has raised nearly $4,000 to date.

Boarding the Ferry to continue her travels through Delaware is a respite from the cold rain and busy roads–a way to embrace the moment and relax while still covering ground. “I’m living my life more now than I ever have before…I am also enjoying every moment of my life, something I haven’t been able to do for a long time.″

For updates on how the rest of Jessie’s journey goes, donation information and to leave messages of encouragement, visit the Freedom to Grow Facebook page or her GoFundMe page.

 

DOLPHINS & WHALES

OH THE THINGS YOU'LL SEE

Stage Coach Gets Ferried to Delaware

A Mini- Stage Coach & A Tall Ferry Tale

It’s not every day you see a stage coach pull up to the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, but the first day after the 2018 Midterm elections, there she was!  The story behind it, directly tied to the elections, was uniquely Delaware, although as with most Ferry Tales, it also has a New Jersey component.

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Return Day parade participants with the mini Wells Fargo Stage Coach

The mini- stage coach at its heart is a golf cart modified by Jack Vliet, a three-time NJ state champion in single action shooting. The vehicle initially did unadorned service as Vliet’s  gun cart during shooting matches.  But, as a member of the Cowboy Action Shooting Club, Vliet soon got the inspiration to decorate the cart to be more thematic to the club’s roots.  Within a few weeks, his plain golf cart was transformed into a bright red, mini Wells Fargo stage coach! 

Two years ago, Robert T. Lee, a fellow shooter and Sheriff of Sussex County, DE, came up to Vliet to entice him into the Sussex County Return Day Parade.  Held every two years, the parade and festival celebrates a Delaware tradition dating back to 1791 when all Sussex County voters had to travel twice to Georgetown, the County Seat. The first trip was to vote and the second was two days later to return and hear the election results when they were turned over from the Sheriff to the Town Crier. 

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Jack Vliet with his mini Wells Fargo Stage Coach for Return Day, Georgetown, DE

Return Day is now a Delaware State holiday. In 2018, Vliet was taking the Cape May-Lewes Ferry from his home in Mays Landing, NJ to return for his own second parade in the 103rd Return Day festivities

Vliet officially paid for just himself as the driver, but he had two unnamed passengers in the back seat — mannequin he also designed himself to ride shotgun during parades. One might assume that he gained his talents from years at Bally’s Wild West Casino, but he’s really a 23 year vet of Harrah’s, Atlantic City!  When at the parade, his two passengers take front and center on the coach, and he goes inside to drive it via restored golf cart battery power.  No tows or horses needed to keep this vehicle running!

Quilting at the Ferry

Monthly Meetings at the Ferry

Many local groups and business organizations like to meet at the Ferry for everything from Chamber of Commerce luncheons in the Cape May Sunset Lounge to pick up mahjong games in the Lewes salon.

But, without a doubt one of the warmest and most regular groups is Quilts of Valor South Jersey Chapter. The group meets the first Friday of every month from September through June in the mornings.  Everyone loves getting a homemade quilt, but this special organization builds blocks at a time to create quilts for veterans of war who might otherwise not have an extra layer of both warmth and care when most needed. 

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Quilts of Valor volunteer works finishing touches on a red quilt.

The organization has strong ties to the area. In 2003, it was started by Blue Star mom Catherine Roberts in Seaford, Delaware while her own son was deployed in Iraq. She knew the healing properties a quilt can provide and started organizing groups of quilters from her sewing room at home to create free handmade blankets for returning military and veterans in need. It has grown into a national effort, with the South Jersey chapter now making the Cape May Ferry Terminal their monthly home. 

Quilts of Valor first discovered the Cape May Ferry Terminal salon in February 2016 when a prior site wasn’t available. They fell in love with the large space, open lighting, multiple electrical outlets and inspiring view, and have been meeting there ever since.  The open space has helped them get their message and mission out to more people as many of the traveling public stop by to make donations and pick up literature.

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close up of quilt block being sewn at the Cape May ferry terminal salon.

Ruth Ann Bosworth leads the South Jersey chapter. She notes that volunteers or interested parties can simply come on appointed Fridays, or email her at r_a_b_27@hotmail.com to learn more about becoming locally involved. Volunteers bring their own sewing machines, but non-sewing help is also welcomed from those who iron to other less hands on assistances.

The group is also always looking for nominations for military active and retired personnel to become a future recipient of one of their special quilts. Non-quilters can also participate by joining the group and donating a small annual fee to help provide fabric, thread and other needed supplies to the more craftier volunteers. For more information on Quilts of Valor, visit their web site at QOVF.org

DOLPHINS & WHALES

OH THE THINGS YOU'LL SEE

Wildflowers Near the Ferry

NJ Wildflowers Welcome Ferry Visitors

If you think flower season is limited to just the spring and summer, then you haven’t treated yourself to a fall ride down the Garden State Parkway. Whether you’re arriving at the Ferry from parts north, or leaving after traveling from the South, you’ll be welcomed by fields of purple and pink wildflowers throughout Cape May County on the Parkway.

In October, when many states farther north are deep into leaves changing, South Jersey is still treating visitors to the joys of blooming flowers.  Here are a 5 things you may not know about wildflowers on the Parkway:

  1. The nation has Lady Bird Johnson to thank for the proliferation of wildflowers throughout the country. Lady Bird, who served as the country’s first lady from November 1963 – January 1969, made beautification of cities and highways one of her key initiatives. The Highway Beautification Act of 1965 was nicknamed Lady Bird’s bill.
  2. The Garden State Parkway is so called because unlike many highways it was designed as a landscaped thoroughfare. Even as one of the busiest toll roads in the country, it is known for its wide green spaces particularly in South Jersey and robust assortment of deciduous and evergreen trees.
  3. The wildflowers displayed on the Parkway in the spring and fall can be purchased at gspwildflowers.com/shop in 1/4 pound bags for personal plantings around homes and offices.
  4. Wildflowers are not only easy on the eyes, but provide havens for birds, butterflies and pollinating insects.
  5. Fall wildflowers on the GSP are pink, but if you come in the spring, the assortment tends toward yellow and orange. In fact, Hammond’s yellow spring beauties are a type of wildflower only found in New Jersey!

Top 7 Sojourns for Snowbirds Heading North

Ways to Enjoy the Journey: Cape May & Lewes Travel Stops

As the weather warms up, snowbirds who have headed south for winter begin to once again venture north. For many, the Ferry is a welcomed mid-point to relax and restore energy with a variety of waterside activities. There are plenty of opportunities for rejuvenation in the Lewes and Cape May areas—below we’ve outlined some of our top recommendations.

Lewes

Embrace History

Embrace the history of our nation’s first state by touring the Ryves Holt House, the oldest standing structure in Delaware, built in 1665 by Dutch settlers. Today the house is home to the Lewes Historical Society and part of the First State National Park.

Parks & Trails

A five-mile trail perfect for a bike, hike or stroll, the Junction and Breakwater Trail winds through forests and open fields along a former section of the Penn Central Railroad between Lewes and Rehoboth Beach. Or explore nearby Cape Henlopen’s three-mile trail looping around the park and experience the scenic landscape and history by climbing to the top of the WWII Observation Tower.

Shopping

A short bike or car ride from Lewes, Rehoboth is home to some of the region’s best shopping, including three Tanger Outlet Centers as well as boutique shopping downtown. Even better, all stores are tax-free!

Cape May

Home Tours

America’s first seaside resort, Cape May has one of the largest collections of late 19th-century frame buildings left in the U.S. and more than 600 Victorian era homes. Take a private guided tour or trolley tour throughout Cape May’s Historic District.

Cuisine

A trip to Cape May wouldn’t be complete without savoring the local coastal cuisine. Take a walking food tour to experience multiple restaurants, local culture, sights, and stories. Or for a romantic feel, stay at the Peter Shields Inn, a romantic seaside getaway, with nine guest rooms, breathtaking oceanfront views, and gourmet dining.

Spas

Relax and rejuvenate from your travels at Spa at Congress Hall or the Cape May Day Spa. Or bring a luxurious spa experience to you by requesting in-room spa service at one of the many B&Bs located in town.

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Motorcycles Take Rt. 9 To Sea Level

Motorcyclists Rev It Up Year-Round!

The Ferry welcomes motorcyclists year-round—even during harsh weather conditions—as a way to escape, relieve stress and enjoy the freedom that riding a motorcycle offers. From choppers to cruisers, sport bikes to slingshots, it’s not unusual to spot at least one motorcycle and frequently more on any departure.

The most popular months for motorcyclists on the Ferry are the warm weather months of May through September.  Insider tip: These dates sell out quickly so although reservations are never required, they are highly recommended especially for the September boats. Here’s a quick run down of some of the most popular motorcycle times at the Ferry.

  • The season usually begins with the Rolling Thunder “Ride for Freedom”  in Washington D.C. each May, with the Ferry giving long voyage riders a great respite en route to supporting the nation’s veterans.
  • In June 2018, other groups start appearing including the Mid-Atlantic Women’s Motorcycle Rally and other longer charity tours.
  • Early September is usually time for the Roar to the Shore event at The Wildwoods, NJ  where attendees enjoy the Boardwalk and Beach as much as the town-wide rally.
  • Each September, special “motorcycle only” boats are scheduled to create camaraderie on the water for those attending Bike Week in Ocean City, MD.
  • Finally, each October, in honor of National Motorcycle Ride Day (second Saturday in October), the Ferry takes the celebration one step further offering the special motorcycle group rate to any one cyclist all month long!

Group Rates Always in Effect

Group of motorcyclists gets ready to board the Cape-May-Lewes Ferry

The Ferry is popular with many couple cyclists en route as part of a romantic get-away.  One couple takes an annual trip to the same beach sanctuary each August for time to recharge and reconnect their own batteries. More frequently, we’ll see groups of 4-12 riders headed either to a weekend event at a shore town, or participating in a longer charity event.

As of 2018, the motorcycle group rate was improved and available to groups of 12 passengers rather than the prior 25. At various times of the year, special group rates are also extended to groups of 8 cycles.  To inquire about reduced group rates check out our Group Specials page, or call 1-800-643-3779.

Ride The Water On Rt 9

A little-known fact is that the Cape May-Lewes Ferry is one of only two Ferry systems nationwide that connects a U.S. Highway via a water route. The Ferry travels along U.S. Route 9, the scenic north-south route from New York to Delaware. Riders can’t claim to have traveled all of Route 9 until they have taken the Ferry and ridden the route on sea level!  If you do the route, make sure to ask for your special pin noting that you’ve done Route 9 not only the traditional way on land, but also the road less traveled on water!

Year-Round Excursions

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motorcycle couple waiting to board Cape May Lewes Ferry

When the weather cools off, that doesn’t mean motorcycling has  to as well. Some of the most beautiful scenery around the Delaware and New Jersey coasts occur in the Fall months when the foliage changes colors. Wintertime is prime season for bird watching from the Ferry as the Delaware Bay is home to a variety of birds. And the indoor heated galleys on the ferries, give cyclists a great way to warm up for the continued ride ahead regardless of their final destination.

Motorcycle rates on the ferry vary by season with the winter and spring with seasonal rates varying from 12-38% peak summer fares. In addition, groups of 25 motorcycles or more qualify for special group rates.  For info on group excursion rates, call 1-800-643-3779 to inquire about group deals.

Whether you’re a lone rider, or have a club looking for a unique excursion, the Ferry is a fun alternative to the standard blue highways ride. There are great day trips on either side of the bay from jazz and music festivals on the Cape May side  to NASCAR and tax free shopping on the Lewes side. We hope to see you rolling through our tolls soon so we can wish you a smooth ride with a smooth sail!

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