Lewes Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Lewes is easily accessible by major highways, with Route 1 connecting directly to the town from points north and south. From Philadelphia, the drive takes approximately two hours, while Washington D.C. and Baltimore are roughly three hours away. The DART bus service connects Lewes to the Wilmington train station, which offers Amtrak service to major East Coast cities. For those arriving by car, the ferry terminal provides ample parking facilities with both short and long-term options. The nearby Georgetown Airport accommodates smaller aircraft for those traveling by private plane.

Nestled along the scenic Delaware Bay, Lewes combines colonial heritage with coastal beauty to create a uniquely charming destination. This historic seaside town, founded in 1631 as the first European settlement in Delaware, offers visitors a perfect blend of maritime tradition and small-town hospitality. Serving as a key ferry gateway, Lewes welcomes travelers with its tree-lined streets, distinctive architecture, and the gentle rhythms of coastal life.

Lewes shines brightest from late spring through early fall when temperatures range from pleasant 70s to mid-80s°F, perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. Summer brings vibrant energy with festivals like the Lewes Maritime Festival in July and consistent ferry services to Cape May. Fall offers spectacular foliage, fewer crowds, and the popular Boast the Coast Maritime Festival in October. Winter visits provide a peaceful retreat with holiday decorations adorning the historic district, though ferry schedules may be reduced. Spring brings blooming gardens and gradually warming temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the town's historic sites.

The Lewes ferry terminal serves as an excellent jumping-off point for coastal explorations. Cape May, New Jersey lies just 17 miles across the Delaware Bay, reachable in approximately 85 minutes by ferry, offering Victorian architecture and pristine beaches. The journey itself provides stunning bay views and frequent dolphin sightings. From Lewes, travelers can also venture to Delaware's beach towns including Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach, each just a short drive away. The nearby Assateague Island, famous for its wild horses, makes for an unforgettable day trip combining ferry and road travel, showcasing the diverse coastal environments of the Delmarva Peninsula.

Lewes invites exploration of its rich past at the Zwaanendael Museum, designed after the town hall in Hoorn, Netherlands, honoring the area's Dutch heritage. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Cape Henlopen State Park with its pristine beaches, World War II observation tower, and the scenic Junction & Breakwater Trail. The historic district features perfectly preserved colonial and Victorian buildings alongside boutique shops and galleries. Culinary adventures await at waterfront restaurants serving fresh-caught Delaware Bay blue crabs and local oysters, while Fisherman's Wharf offers the chance to watch commercial fishing boats bring in their daily catch. Don't miss the Cannonball House, bearing the mark of British naval bombardment during the War of 1812.

Lewes proudly calls itself 'The First Town in The First State,' referencing both Delaware's status as the first state to ratify the Constitution and Lewes' establishment as the earliest European settlement in the state. The town was once known as 'Zwaanendael' or 'Valley of Swans' when founded by Dutch settlers in 1631. Unusually for an East Coast town, Lewes faces west, allowing visitors to enjoy spectacular sunsets over the Delaware Bay rather than sunrises over the ocean. The Lewes-Cape May ferry has been operating since 1964 and has transported over 14 million vehicles and 43 million passengers across the Delaware Bay.