Can’t manage to get away this year? Then bring your hat and sunglasses to the Lewes ferry terminal, and plan for a staycation or day trip to Cape May and beyond in our neighbor New Jersey’ backyard, also renowned for it’s beautiful beaches and colorful Victorian architecture.
If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing a delightful voyage. For 58 years, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry has been transporting thousands of passengers year-round across the Delaware Bay for obvious reasons (bypassing eastern corridor traffic, getting there faster). But you just may be surprised to hear what keeps your neighbors coming back to the ferry.
In fact, a Lewes acquaintance told us recently that she takes the round trip monthly to meet her sister for lunch or dinner, and animatedly said how much they both look forward to it.
There tourists, plenty of RV owners heading either south or north to return home after a season of well, RV-ing.
One of my favorite to observe is the amount of bicyclists, walk-on pedestrian traffic and motorcyclists eying up each other’s machines. Not everyone takes the journey in an auto or some kind of RV. I’ve seen boats in tow (extra charge of course for 2 vehicles and their length), but it’s so easy to do, no matter what mode you use.
Experience what all the buzz is all about on the scenic, 85-minute ride. Cruise across the bay while soaking in the maritime scenery, including the historic lighthouses and dolphins and whales (the captain and staff will let you know when sightings are made, to the delight of passengers of all ages).
Enjoy the sea breezes in an Adirondack chair on the deck on your way for a day trip or staycation to romantic Victorian Cape May. Or if you’d prefer to stay out of the sun, the inside is heated and air conditioned, with substantial and comfortable seating. There’s even WiFi access for commuters.
Yes, there are some people who commute all of that way for work almost daily.
Oh, and then there’s the four-legged travelers. The ferry system prides itself on its dog-friendliness. They are actually encouraged, and always make friends.
At the Cape May terminal, which is very modern and the site of many wedding receptions, there’s a bit of some organization necessary to get into the quaint town. If you’re a bicyclist and don’t mind the 2-mile ride into town, it’s pretty easy.
There is shuttle service, it you’re not arriving by car, it is wise to arrange it in advance.
For a family adventure before or after hitting the beautiful boardwalk and beach scene, consider taking the grandkids on an adventure to the nearby City Park and Zoo. But don’t miss the tradition of ice cream on the boardwalk, such as from Fine Fellows Creamery. While you wait for the return trip to Lewes, let the kids stay entertained by playing free miniature golf at the terminal, which also has a generous share of food options.
Cape May’s terminal has free concerts in the summer on its expansive lawn. It’s one of the best viewing locations for a sunset over the bay. And not to be remiss about the beautiful Lewes terminal, you can enjoy a cup of Joe from Lewes Coffee Company, or lunch (or dinner on your return) at Grain on the Rocks – also dog-friendly, and with stunning views of the Delaware Bay the Cape Henlopen lighthouses.
Who’d guess a ferry terminal could provide so much fun! Take a trip on the briny and enjoy.
Ahoy!
(Pics from cmlf.com)