Boarding the Cape May - Lewes Ferry
The Cape May–Lewes Ferry offers a relaxing and scenic way to travel north or south along the I-95 corridor while skipping hours of traffic. Whether you’re heading to the beaches of Delaware, historic Cape May, or making your way up the coast, our ferry terminals in Cape May, NJ, and Lewes, DE make it easy to start your journey stress-free.
When you arrive at the Cape May or Lewes Ferry Terminal, you’ll find more than just a place to board the Ferry. Both terminals feature restaurants, outdoor seating, walking paths, and beautiful waterfront views, giving you plenty of ways to relax before departure. Travelers can enjoy a meal, take in the scenery, or explore the nearby attractions while waiting for their ferry crossing across the Delaware Bay.
This page includes everything you need to know about boarding procedures, and amenities at both terminals, plus frequently asked questions to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re planning a day trip to Cape May, a family getaway to the Delaware Beaches, or looking for a fun alternative to driving the entire I-95 route, the Cape May–Lewes Ferry is your connection to a more scenic and enjoyable East Coast journey.
PLEASE NOTE: Reservations are recommended prior to arriving at either the Cape May Ferry Terminal or the Lewes Ferry Terminal.
Boarding the Ferry as a Walk-On Passenger (aka Foot-Passenger)
If I plan to take the Ferry without a vehicle, what is the boarding process for walk-in passengers?
We refer to passengers without vehicles of any kind as “Foot Passengers,” since they are traveling “on foot.” To prepare for boarding, foot passengers will be directed to the second level of the terminal where a security checkpoint is located. Access is available via stairs or elevator to reach the Skywalk.
Before boarding begins, we invite you to enjoy our terminal amenities, including restrooms, a food options, and a, in Cape May, a gift shop. These conveniences are also available aboard each Ferry.
When boarding, please have your ticket ready for scanning by our Dock Attendant.
How far is the walk from the terminal elevator to the vessel gangway?
At our Cape May terminal, the distance from the second-floor elevator to the vessel gangway is approximately 465 feet.
At the Lewes terminal, this distance is slightly shorter, around 325 feet.
Both pathways are mostly level, featuring gentle inclines and declines for a smooth walking experience.
Please note that the vessel gangway has a steeper slope. Our crew will be available to assist anyone who may need help boarding.
What is the boarding process for vehicles taking the Cape May - Lewes Ferry?
About 20 minutes before departure, announcements will be made inside and outside the terminal requesting that drivers and passengers return to their vehicles in preparation for boarding.
Once you are back in your vehicle, please have your ticket ready to be scanned by our security personnel. Our dock attendants will then guide you onto the ferry and assist you with parking.
Please note that accessing the first passenger deck requires climbing 24 stairs.
- If you are unable to use stairs and need access to a passenger deck, please inform the toll booth or security staff before boarding.
- The toll booth or security personnel will provide you with a special boarding pass and directions to board through the terminal.
- A staff member will transport your vehicle onto the vessel, and upon arrival, they will drive it off the Ferry and reunite you with it.
What Types of Seating are Available on the Ferries?
Our Ferries provide a variety of seating options to ensure your comfort throughout the journey:
Indoor Seating:
- Tables with bench seating, perfect for groups and families.
- Individual reclining seats for a more relaxed ride.
Outdoor Seating:
- Adirondack-style chairs for enjoying the views.
- Lido Bar seating on the upper deck.
- Metal table and chair sets are also located on the upper deck.
- Classic wooden bench seating on the second deck.
Whether you prefer relaxing indoors or enjoying the sea breeze outside, there’s a seat for every type of traveler.
At the Ferry Terminal
What Can I Do While Waiting for my Ferry to Board and Depart?
Both the Cape May and Lewes terminals offer amenities and scenic views while you wait to board:
- Stretch Your Legs: Ample grassy areas for walking, including pet-friendly spaces, playgrounds, and mini golf courses.
- Enjoy the Views: Take in fantastic views of the Delaware Bay.
Food & Drink:
- Lewes Terminal: Lewes Coffee Company and Grain On the Rocks
- Cape May Terminal: Stowaways Bar & Restaurant and Stowaways Cafe
- Restrooms, Gift Shops, Food: Available inside both terminals.
Unaccompanied Minors Policy
Ages 14 and Older: Unaccompanied minors aged 14 or older may travel aboard the Ferry without an escort.
Photo ID Required: A photo ID is required at check-in. School photo IDs are accepted for those without a driver’s license, passport, or other form of photo ID.
No Photo ID: If no photo ID is available, an adult must be present to check them in and show their ID as the responsible party.
Ages 2 to 13: A maximum of two children between the ages of 2 and 13 can travel escorted by a passenger who is at least 14 years old.
Parking at the Terminals
Free parking is available at both the Cape May and Lewes terminals.
Cape May Terminal Parking:
- Stay in the far right-hand lane as you enter the terminal grounds.
- Follow signs for “Foot Passenger Parking.”
Stay to the right of the toll booth (do not go through the toll booth). - Follow the lane up to the terminal for ample parking.
Lewes Terminal Parking:
- Utilize the second entrance on Cape Henlopen Drive.
- Do not use the toll booth entrance for parking.
- This entrance is marked with a blue sign that says, “Foot Passenger Parking Lot.”
May I Leave My Car Overnight at the Terminal?
Yes, you can leave your car in the ferry parking lot overnight.
Registration of vehicles parked overnight at either terminal is required!
Please register your vehicle using your license plate number, and the State with one of the following:
- The Ticket Counter staff inside the terminal during operating hours.
- Police personnel in the police building (at either Cape May or Lewes) after hours.
No Charge: This service is free of charge. All parking at either Ferry terminal is free.