CAPE MAY, NJ – Due to the rising price of fuel and the volatility in the fuel markets, the Cape May – Lewes Ferry (CMLF) will be implementing a $7 fuel surcharge on all vehicle fares per crossing.  The surcharge is not applicable to walk on passengers.  The fuel surcharge is expected to remain in effect through December 31, 2026 and may be adjusted based on fuel costs.

“Diesel fuel prices have risen significantly this year, and the Ferry was able to mitigate the majority of the fiscal impact on our operation this summer with hedging contracts,” said Heath Gehrke, Director of Ferry Operations.  “With our fuel hedges expiring and no relief on the horizon, we had to make the tough decision to share some of the fuel cost increase with our customers.”  

In February 2009, the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) Commission adopted Resolution 09-05, which authorizes Cape May – Lewes Ferry management to apply a fuel surcharge on vehicles using the ferry service.  The fuel surcharge is only applied when the price the DRBA pays for marine diesel fuel rises faster than the 8-year trend.  The last time the Cape May – Lewes Ferry implemented a fuel surcharge was April 2022.

Published fares do not include any applicable fuel surcharge, so customers are encouraged to review the final amount displayed during the reservation process before purchase.  If the price of fuel drops to previous levels, the fuel surcharge will be removed.  Rates are subject to change and will be assessed when the customer checks in at the tollbooth.  Customers are urged to visit the Ferry’s website, www.CMLF.com, or call 800-643-3779 to get the most up-to-date information on the fuel surcharge.

About the Cape May-Lewes Ferry 
Owned and operated by the Delaware River and Bay Authority, the Cape May – Lewes Ferry is open year-round and has carried more than 50 million passengers since its inception on July 1, 1964. As an integral transportation system connecting the communities and economies on both sides of the Delaware Bay, the Ferry service is a significant catalyst for economic growth and regional tourism activity in New Jersey and Delaware. Its operations sustain over 4,000 jobs while generating tens of millions of dollars in local taxes and hundreds of millions in regional economic activity. For schedules and rates, please visit www.CMLF.com or call 800-643-3779.