CAPE MAY, NJ – Let’s rock and roll on the high seas this summer! Cape May – Lewes Ferry (CMLF) officials are excited to announce the expansion of one of its most popular seasonal traditions, which will now feature cruises departing from both Lewes, Delaware, and Cape May, New Jersey. 

For several years, Rock the Boat cruises departing from Lewes, Delaware have been a staple of the summer season, regularly selling out weeks in advance. In direct response to overwhelming customer demand, CMLF officials are adding a dedicated Cape May round-trip cruise for the 2026 season. This new addition allows New Jersey residents and visitors to experience the high-energy, floating rock concert without having to cross the bay first.

"Our Rock the Boat cruises have built a massive following over the years, and the number one request we’ve received is to offer a departure option from Cape May," said Heath Gehrke, Director of Ferry Operations. "We are thrilled to launch this new Cape May edition for 2026. Combining live rock music with ocean breezes and stunning sunset views creates an unmatched atmosphere, and we're excited to bring that energy to our New Jersey passengers this summer."

Beginning Saturday, July 11, and running through September 5, 2026, the ferry will host live rock and roll performances onboard during prime Saturday evening sailings. Passengers can grab a drink, find a spot on the deck, and dance the night away against the backdrop of spectacular Delaware Bay sunsets.

Official 2026 Rock the Boat Excursion Schedules

Cape May Departures

• NEW! Saturday "Rock the Boat" Music Cruises (Cape May Round-Trip)
• Dates Available: Saturdays, July 11 – September 5, 2026 
• Check-In Window: Begins at 3:45 PM.
• Departure & Return: Departs Cape May Terminal at 4:30 PM | Returns to Cape May at 7:45 PM.
• Saturday Artist Lineup (Cape May Departures):
  • Going Rogue: July 11, August 8, August 22, and August 29.
  • Nolan Quinn: July 25 and August 15.
  • Additional artists for July 18, August 1, and September 5 to be announced.

Lewes, DE Departures

• Traditional Thursday "Rock the Boat" Cruises (Lewes Round-Trip):
• Dates Available: Thursdays, July 9 – September 10, 2026
• Check-In Window: Begins at 3:45 PM.
• Departure & Return: Departs Lewes Terminal at 4:15 PM | Returns to Lewes at 7:25 PM.
• Featured Artist: Glass Onion serves as the classic musical entertainment for these traditional cruises.

Ticket Pricing & Onboard Policies:

• Round-Trip Foot Passenger Cost: $18.00 Adults (14 and older) | $14.00 Seniors, Military, AAA, BNR | $5.00 Children (6–13) | FREE for children aged 5 and under.  
• What's Included: Round-trip foot passenger passage and live musical entertainment.
• Food & Drink: Full bar and refreshment services are available for purchase throughout the cruise. Drinks can be bought at the onboard Lido Bar (cash/cards) or at deck satellite bars (cash only). Because Rock the Boat cruises are highly popular and fast-paced, carrying cash is strongly recommended to expedite service. Passengers may bring food onboard, but no outside alcohol is permitted. 
• Accessibility: All music cruises are fully handicap accessible via terminal or dockside elevators, with onboard elevator access connecting the passenger deck to the upper "entertainment" deck.

Due to the historically high demand for the Rock the Boat series, tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Advanced reservations are required for all music sailings. To secure your tickets, view full scheduling details, or explore other summer events, visit CMLF.com or contact the customer service team at 1-800-643-3779.

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.