Can the Ferry Take My Vehicle?
The Cape May - Lewes Ferry Carries Bicycles to 18-Wheelers
Big or small, we carry 'em all! Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding bringing your vehicle aboard 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, so as long as your vehicle is under that mark, we'll happily welcome you aboard.
Can I drive my RV on the ferry?
Yes, from travel trailers to fifth wheels, and camper vans to class A cruisers, all RV's are welcome aboard! View the video below to learn more about bringing your RV aboard the Cape May - Lewes Ferry.
Vehicle Boarding Information
Is there a vehicle height limitation?
Yes, vehicles must be under 13'6" in height to board the Ferry. Upon entering the toll plaza, there are height detectors that determine whether your vehicle will fit aboard our vessels.
Is there a vehicle length limitation?
Yes, vehicles must be under 100' in length to board the Ferry. Vehicles longer than 18' must be measured and reserved to the nearest foot, rounded up, to ensure the correct amount of space is reserved on board the vessel. Upon entering the toll plaza, representatives of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry will verify/determine the length of the vehicle. Underestimating or under-representing the total length of your vehicle and its cargo may result in a denial of boarding due to space limitations.
How do I measure length?
Total vehicle length is measured from the front of the vehicle, including bumper, front rack, etc., to the back of the vehicle or whatever it is towing. This includes trailers, bike racks, boat engines, etc. This is then rounded up to the nearest foot for the purpose of the booking.
Is there a vehicle width limitation?
Any vehicle wider than 8'6" is considered over-width by federal regulations and takes up more than one standard vehicle lane. Over-width vehicles are welcome on board, but will be charged for taking up two or more lanes as needed to accommodate the vehicle. Maximum width of your vehicle must be stated at time of booking to ensure space is available. Maximum width is confirmed / determined during check in by a representative of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry and that measurement is considered final. Failure to correctly determine / represent the maximum width of the vehicle may result in a denial of boarding.
How do I measure width?
Maximum vehicle width is measured at the widest point of the vehicle or whatever it is towing. This may be the rear axle, the beam of the boat on the trailer, or the mirrors on the RV. This number, in feet and inches, is used to determine if the vehicle is over-width.
What about vehicles with low ground clearance?
For vehicles/trailers with low clearance, book your crossing two hours before/after the time of high tide, as that should allow sufficient clearance under your chassis to board. Attempting to board at other times may result in your vehicle "hanging up" on the boarding ramp.
How many vehicles are on board at one time?
The car deck on each ferry can accommodate approximately 100 standard sized vehicles. The specific number of vehicles on any one voyage may fluctuate depending on the length of the vehicles booked on that particular voyage.
How far apart are vehicles parked?
Vehicles are positioned with approximately 10 inches of space in front and behind each other, and roughly 2-3 feet of space on each side. Cars stationed closer to the walls may have tighter access space on the wall side, so if you need extra space to exit your vehicle comfortably, please alert the toll operator when you arrive. They will coordinate with and inform the dock hands of your situation.
How are motorcycles secured?
Drivers will be asked to park their motorcycle sideways, and we will place a wooden block behind the tire. In rare high-wind conditions, we may ask motorcycle drivers to remain with their vehicles.
Are there restrictions on the transport of propane gas or gasoline containers aboard the Ferry?
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 (towed) - Not more than two portable 25-litre (6.6 gallon) gasoline containers, empty or full
Certain items, such as paint and adhesives, are subject to regulations and may not be carried. If you are in doubt about any goods you would like to transport, please inquire with our Customer Service team at 800.643.3779 before traveling.