DRBA Seeks Public Input on Proposed Cape May–Lewes Ferry Fare Changes

Photo Courtesy of the DRBA

The fare discussion comes as the DRBA advances a major long-term investment in the ferry system.

CAPE MAY, N.J. — The Delaware River and Bay Authority will hold a virtual public hearing later this month to gather public input on proposed fare adjustments for the Cape May–Lewes Ferry, a key transportation and economic link between Delaware and New Jersey.

The authority said the proposed changes include fare increases to reflect inflationary pressures, balanced by selected reductions intended to encourage family travel and multi-trip use. Officials emphasized that no final decisions have been made and that public feedback will be considered before any changes are implemented.

“We typically introduce a fare change every other year, which is designed to help reduce the operating subsidy of the ferry, but also to make travel for families and multi-trip passengers more affordable over time,” said Heath Gehrke, director of ferry operations. “This year, we are holding a virtual public hearing to get some feedback from our guests as we move to implement some proposed changes.”

Owned and operated by the DRBA, the Cape May–Lewes Ferry has operated continuously since July 1, 1964, and has carried more than 50 million passengers across the Delaware Bay. The year-round service connects Lewes in Sussex County with Cape May, N.J., offering an alternative to highway travel for vehicles, bicycles and foot passengers.

For Delaware, particularly coastal Sussex County, the ferry serves as both essential infrastructure and an economic driver. It provides a direct transportation link for residents, workers and businesses while also acting as a primary gateway for visitors from New Jersey, New York and New England. Tourism officials and local business leaders have long credited the ferry with supporting hotels, restaurants, retail shops and seasonal employment in Lewes, Rehoboth Beach and surrounding communities.

The DRBA estimates the ferry’s operations sustain more than 4,000 jobs and generate tens of millions of dollars in local tax revenue, along with hundreds of millions of dollars in regional economic activity. The ferry operates without direct taxpayer funding, relying on fares and related revenue to support its operations.

Fleet Modernization Underway

The fare discussion comes as the DRBA advances a major long-term investment in the ferry system. In November 2025, the authority awarded a $78.6 million contract to SENESCO Marine LLC of North Kingstown, R.I., to construct a new 75-vehicle diesel-hybrid ferry — the first new vessel ordered for the Cape May–Lewes Ferry fleet in decades.

The new vessel will replace the MV Cape Henlopen, which has been in service for more than 40 years. The project includes $20 million in funding from a U.S. Department of Transportation grant, with the remaining costs financed by the bi-state authority.

According to the DRBA, the diesel-hybrid ferry is designed to reduce emissions and lower long-term operating costs. The authority projects annual reductions of approximately 2,025 tons of carbon dioxide, along with significant decreases in nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter and other pollutants. Fuel consumption is expected to decline by about 35 percent.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with completion projected for summer 2029. The vessel is anticipated to enter service between 2028 and 2029, following outfitting and testing.

DRBA officials say continued investment in modern vessels is necessary to maintain reliable service and preserve the ferry’s role as a critical transportation link and economic catalyst for southern Delaware and New Jersey.

How to Participate

What:
Virtual public hearing on proposed Cape May–Lewes Ferry fare adjustments

When:
Monday, Jan. 12, 2026
6:30 p.m.

Where:
Online via Microsoft Teams

How to Join:
https://www.drba.net/events/ferry-public-hearing-2026
No advance registration is required.

Purpose:
The hearing will outline proposed 2026 fare concepts and provide an opportunity for ferry users, residents and businesses to offer public comment before any changes are finalized.