Frequently Asked Questions On Vehicles Taking the Cape May - Lewes Ferry
Planning to take your vehicle on the Cape May–Lewes Ferry? Whether you’re driving a car, SUV, RV, motorcycle, or even a fully loaded tractor-trailer, our ferry makes crossing the Delaware Bay stress-free and straightforward. From family road trips with the camper in tow to commercial hauls moving between New Jersey and Delaware, we transport everything from bicycles to buses—yes, even the famous Oscar Mayer Wienermobile has sailed with us!
Before you book, it’s essential to know a few key details about vehicle size and weight limits, low-clearance requirements, and restricted items. Our team can accommodate motorhomes, tour buses, boats on trailers, and oversize vehicles with advance reservations. Still, tide conditions in Cape May and Lewes can sometimes affect loading for low-clearance vehicles. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive FAQ for taking your car, truck, or RV on the Cape May–Lewes Ferry—so you have all the information you need before you arrive.
Whether you’re heading to the Delaware Beaches, Cape May attractions, or just looking for a faster route across the Bay, this page covers everything from vehicle dimensions and boarding tips to restricted cargo rules. Read on to learn exactly what to expect when you drive onto the ferry for a smooth, worry-free crossing.
VEHICLE SIZE INFORMATION FOR THE CAPE MAY - LEWES FERRY
WHAT SIZE VEHICLES CAN I DRIVE ON THE FERRY?
The Ferry can accommodate vehicles up to 13’6″ in height. As long as your vehicle is under that height, we’ll gladly welcome you aboard.
CAN I DRIVE MY RV ON THE FERRY?
All types of RVs, from travel trailers to fifth wheels, camper vans to Class A cruisers, are welcome aboard! Watch the video below to learn more about bringing your RV on the Cape May – Lewes Ferry.
VEHICLE BOARDING MUST KNOWS & INFORMATION FOR THE CAPE MAY - LEWES FERRY
IS THERE A VEHICLE HEIGHT LIMITATION?
Vehicles must be under 13’6″ in height to board the ferry. Upon entering the toll plaza, height detectors will verify if your vehicle can fit aboard our vessels.
IS THERE A VEHICLE LENGTH LIMITATION?
Vehicles must be under 100 feet in length to board the ferry. If your vehicle is longer than 18 feet, you must measure it and make a reservation to the nearest foot, rounding up, to ensure the correct amount of space is reserved on board the vessel. Upon entering the toll plaza, representatives from the Cape May-Lewes Ferry will verify the length of your vehicle.
Underestimating or inaccurately representing the total length of your vehicle and its cargo may result in denial of boarding due to space limitations.
HOW DO I MEASURE MY VEHICLE LENGTH?
The total length of a vehicle is measured from the front, including the bumper and any front attachments, to the back of the vehicle or any items it is towing.
This length must take into account trailers, bike racks, boat engines, and similar equipment.
When booking your reservation on the ferry, round the total measurement up to the nearest foot.
IS THERE A VEHICLE WIDTH LIMITATION?
Any vehicle wider than 8 feet 6 inches is classified as over-width according to federal regulations and occupies more than one standard vehicle lane. Over-width vehicles are permitted on board, but there will be an additional charge for taking up two or more lanes to accommodate the vehicle.
When making a booking, it is essential to specify the maximum width of your vehicle to ensure that we have the necessary space available. The maximum width will be verified at check-in by a representative of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, and that measurement will be considered final.
If the maximum width of the vehicle is not accurately represented, boarding may be denied. Additionally, any vehicle wider than 8 feet 6 inches cannot be reserved online and must be booked by phone at 1-800-643-3779.
HOW DO I MEASURE MY VEHICLES WIDTH?
The maximum width of a vehicle is measured at its widest point, which may include the rear axle, the beam of a boat on a trailer, or the mirrors on an RV. This measurement, given in feet and inches, is used to determine if the vehicle exceeds width regulations.
WHAT ABOUT VEHICLES WITH LOW GROUND CLEARANCE?
For vehicles and trailers with low clearance, please schedule your crossing for two hours before or after high tide. This timing should provide enough clearance for your chassis to board safely. Attempting to board at other times may cause your vehicle to get stuck on the ramp.
If you are unsure, please call us at 800-643-3779 for assistance with your low clearance vehicle before booking.
VEHICLE LIMITATIONS & TRANSPORTATION LIMITATIONS OR RESTRICTIONS FOR THE CAPE MAY - LEWES FERRY
HOW MANY VEHICLES ARE ON BOARD THE FERRY EACH CROSSING?
Each ferry in the Cape May – Lewes Ferry fleet can accommodate approximately 100 standard vehicles on its car deck. However, the actual capacity may vary depending on the sizes of the vehicles scheduled to travel on a specific ferry and crossing.
HOW FAR APART ARE VEHICLES PARKED ON BOARD THE FERRY?
Vehicles are parked with about 10 inches of space in front and behind each other, and approximately 2-3 feet of space on each side.
Cars parked closer to the walls may have limited access on the wall side.
If you need extra space to exit your vehicle comfortably, please inform the toll operator upon your arrival. They will coordinate with the dock hands to accommodate your needs.
HOW ARE MOTORCYCLES SECURED ON THE FERRY?
Motorcycle drivers will be asked to park their bikes sideways, with a wooden block placed behind the tire. In rare high-wind conditions, drivers may be asked to stay with their vehicles.
ARE THERE RESTRICTIONS ON THE TRANSPORT OF PROPANE GAS OR GASOLINE CONTAINERS ABOARD THE FERRY?
Safety regulations restrict the transport of gasoline and propane gas to the following maximum quantities:
Recreational Vehicles: You may transport no more than two (2) five-gallon propane cylinders, securely fastened to the vehicle in an upright position, with valves closed and properly tagged. Additionally, you are allowed one 25-liter (6.6-gallon) gasoline container, which can be either empty or full. If your vehicle has a propane-powered refrigerator, ensure that the thermostat control is set to the “off” position.
Automobiles: You are allowed one 25-liter (6.6-gallon) gasoline container, which can be either empty or full.
Motorboats (towed): You can carry no more than two portable 25-liter (6.6-gallon) gasoline containers, which can also be either empty or full.
Certain items, such as paint and adhesives, are also subject to regulations and may not be transported. If you have any questions about any items you wish to carry, please get in touch with our Customer Service team at 800-643-3779 before your trip.