Vehicle Size Guidelines and Restrictions

Bicycles to 18-Wheelers, We Carry It All

Whether you’re riding a bicycle or driving a big rig, the Cape May–Lewes Ferry is built to welcome vehicles of all shapes and sizes.

Vehicle Size Guidelines

If your vehicle meets the above guidelines, we can likely accommodate it, and our crew will ensure a smooth boarding experience. Be sure to call us if you have any questions or concerns, our Customer Service team is here to assist you, 800-643-3779.

  • Height: Vehicles must be under 13 feet 6 inches to board.
  • Length: No restrictions, bring your compact car, RV, tour bus, or trailer.
  • Width: Vehicles up to 11 feet 3 inches are allowed.

Those vehicles which are wider than 8 feet 6 inches must reserve by phone at 1-800-643-3779 and will be charged for two adjacent spaces.

Bringing Your RV? We’ve Got You Covered

Whether you’re driving a camper van, travel trailer, fifth wheel, or a Class A motorhome, your RV is welcome aboard the Cape May – Lewes Ferry.

As long as your RV is under 13 feet 6 inches tall and within width guidelines, we’ll help you cruise across the bay with ease. Our crews are experienced in accommodating all types of recreational vehicles—so drive up, check in, and enjoy the ride.

Want to see how loading an RV on the Ferry works? Watch our video, RV Travel Tips for the Cape May – Lewes Ferry, below for a quick walkthrough of the RV boarding experience.

Vehicle Boarding Guidelines

Size & Clearance Requirements

  • Height Limit: Vehicles must be under 13’6″. Toll plaza height sensors will confirm clearance.
  • Length Limit: Vehicles must be under 100′ total. Passenger vehicles less than 20′ in length are considered standard vehicles. Anything longer than 20′ must be reserved to the nearest foot (rounded up). Length is verified at check-in.
  • Width Limit: We can accommodate vehicles up to 11’3″ wide. Those over 8’6″ require a phone reservation at 1-800-643-3779 and are charged for two adjacent spaces.
Vehicles load onto the Cape May - Lewes Ferry MV Delaware in preparation of crossing Delaware Bay

How to Measure a Vehicle

To Measure Length: The length of a vehicle is measured from the very front (including bumpers, racks) to the very back (including trailers, bike racks, boats, etc.). Vehicle length is rounded up to the next foot length.

To Measure Width: Measure at the vehicles widest point – be sure to include the rear axle (does it have double wheels?), mirrors, or towed equipment.

Vehicles_On_Ferry

For Low Clearance Vehicles including Trailers, etc.

If your vehicle or trailer has low clearance, we recommend traveling two hours before or after high tide for smoother boarding.

Check either of the tide charts via the buttons below or call us, 800-643-3779, before booking. We would be happy to help you determine when to book your Ferry travel based on the tides.

Learn More About Preparing Your Vehicle for Ferry Travel

On Board Vehicle Capacity and Parking

Each Ferry in the Cape May – Lewes Ferry fleet holds approximately 100 standard vehicles, but actual capacity may vary depending on the sizes of all vehicle scheduled to travel on that particular Ferry vessel and crossing. 

A standard vehicle is defined as one being under 20′ in length. When measuring vehicles in length that at 20′ and longer, the length will be rounded up.

Standard vehicles are spaced about 10″ front to back and 2–3′ side-to-side. Need extra room? Let the toll attendant know, we’ll try to help accommodate your needs if space permits.

Motorcycles are parked sideways with a tire block; during rough seas or high winds, riders may be asked to stay with their bikes.

Transportation of Fuel and Other Restricted Items

Safety regulations prohibit the transport of gasoline and propane gas in excess of the following quantities:

  • Recreational Vehicles – No more than two (2) five-gallon cylinders of propane safely secured to the vehicle in an upright position, with valves closed and tagged, plus one 25-litre (6.6 gallon) gasoline container, empty or full. Propane-powered refrigerators must have the thermostat control turned to the “off” position.

  • Automobiles – Not more than one 25-litre (6.6 gallon) gasoline container, empty or full.

  • Motorboats (in tow) – Not more than two portable 25-litre (6.6 gallon) gasoline containers, empty or full.

PLEASE NOTE: Some items, including paint and adhesives, are subject to specific regulations and cannot be transported. If you’re unsure about any items you plan to carry, please contact our Customer Service team at 800-643-3779 for assistance before you travel.

Upcoming Events

Search in CMLF

Cape May Lewes Ferry

Subscribe to our newsletter

Booking Form