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...

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

Image
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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