DRBA Commission Adopts New 2026 Fare Schedule for Cape-May Lewes Ferry
The Delaware River and Bay Authority has approved a revised fare schedule for the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, effective June 1st. Changes include expanded free travel for children ages 6 to 13 from October through May, a new tiered “staircase pricing” model for vehicle bookings based on vessel capacity, and modest increases to some vehicle, shuttle, and reservation-related fees. Officials say the changes are expected to generate about $1.5 million annually to help offset operating costs while keeping family travel affordable.
Additional Information from the Delaware River & Bay Authority:
The Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) Commissioners unanimously approved Resolution 26-18 at its April 21, 2026, Board meeting, which authorized a revised fare schedule for the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. The adjustments, which were developed following a virtual public meeting held on February 9, 2026, are designed to ensure the continued operational excellence of the bi-state crossing while expanding benefits for families and streamlining the reservation process. The new fares will officially go into effect on June 1, 2026.
“Our focus is to both reduce our operating deficit with modest fare changes but keep fares as affordable as possible – even in times of escalating fuel and operating costs – by offering discounts that encourage multiple trips, family bookings, and reserved travel” said Heath Gehrke, Director of Ferry Operations. “Because traveling for a vacation or visiting family are the two top reasons why people use the Cape May – Lewes Ferry, we know affordable family travel is important to our customers’ decision-making process.”
A central highlight of the new schedule is the expansion of family-friendly pricing, specifically for increasing the period where children 6 to 13 travel for free. This “free-travel” window for children now extends from October through May, providing significant value for families traveling during the off-season and shoulder months.
The revised fare schedule also introduces a “staircase pricing” model for vehicle bookings. Under this new system, base fares remain consistent for early bookings, but prices will step up incrementally as vessel capacity reaches 50%, 75%, and 90% thresholds. Additionally, vehicle fares will see a seasonal increase ranging from $2 to $6 depending on time of year, and the Authority has transitioned group and return-trip discounts to a fixed percentage of the base fare.
Other notable changes include a $2 increase to shuttle fares and a $2 adjustment to the non-refundable reservation cancellation fee and the “show-go” handling fee for non-reserved vehicle travel. These modifications are projected to generate approximately $1.5 million in additional revenue annually to help offset the service’s operating deficit. Travelers are encouraged to review the complete fare table by visiting www.CMLF.com. The website also has detailed information on Loyalty Rewards and ticket expiration policies.