Historic Archives

Cape May – Lewes Ferry Welcomes 50 Millionth Passenger!

October 13, 2023 by administrator

Celebrating a Milestone at the Lewes Terminal

It has been nearly sixty years since the first trip across the bay for the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. The first crossing on July 1, 1964 at 6:47 a.m. carried eight vehicles and fifteen passengers. On October 13, 2023, MV New Jersey sailed with 100 vehicles and 200 passengers – a sold-out sailing on the vehicle deck. There was also something special happening on the boat that day.

Shortly before 11:00 a.m., the 50 millionth passenger to ride the Ferry arrived to fanfare, VIPs, and the media. When Zach Kaltenbach purchased a ticket for the 11:15 a.m. departure bound for Cape May, New Jersey, he had no idea what would happen. Kaltenbach, originally from Long Beach Island, New Jersey, along with his girlfriend, Jody, and daughters Finley and Harbor, all now living in Millsboro, Delaware, were headed to Cape May for a baby shower.

Surprised as they arrived at the Lewes Terminal our 50millionth Passenger is Celebrated

“You’re not in trouble…”

After arriving at the tolls, the DRBA Police escorted the family to the front of the lot, where Ferry Director Heath Gehrke first clarified that the family was not “in trouble” and then revealed that Kaltenbach was the 5o millionth, passenger to embark on the Ferry since it started sailing in 1964! The family travels aboard the Ferry multiple times monthly to visit Zach’s parents residing in Cape May.

Gehrke, joined by DRBA Executive Director Tom Cook and DRBA Commissioner Ted Becker, then presented two tote bags filled with gifts including Cape May – Lewes Ferry logo items, free passage that day on the Ferry, and a certificate valid for future travel aboard the Cape May – Lewes Ferry.

Director of Ferry Operations. Heath Gehrke, is interviewed by the media about the milestone 50,000,000th Passenger on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry

Today culminated months of planning by the Ferry team as they prepared to celebrate this remarkable milestone. It was a joyous moment for all in attendance and a delight to those waiting to board the Ferry. It’s been a great first 60 years, here’s to the next 60 and beyond.

Celebration of the 50,000,000th Passenger Zach Kaltenbach with Jody, Finley and Harbor

Read the press release for the event here on the Delaware River and Bay Authority website.

THE DRBA AND THE CAPE MAY – LEWES FERRY MARINE MASTER PLAN

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Must-Do Delaware Activities

February 4, 2021 by administrator

Fun, Adventure, and Incredible Experiences In the First State!

Delaware might be small in stature, but it’s certainly not short on adventure. Whether your Delaware to-do list is focused on food, beer, history, outdoor adventure, luxury or any combination thereof, the First State offers plenty of opportunities to start checking things off!

And while the suggestions here are our own, this post was inspired by the Ferry’s inclusion in the book 100 Things To Do in Delaware Before You Die, written by Dan Shortridge and Rachel Kipp, available now from Reedy Press. It’s an awesome book with an exhaustive list of must-visit places, things to do, and enough day-trip and weekend adventure ideas to keep you coming back to Delaware for years, so make sure to pick up a copy!

For History Buffs

Dive into Delaware's history!

Historic Lewes: The First Town in the First State

Lewes, located immediately on the Delaware side as soon as you exit the Ferry, is a town steeped in history. From the Zwaanendael Museum to the Cannonball House, Life Saving Station, and so much more, there are enough historical adventures to keep even the most dedicated history buff busy. And for those nautically inclined, take special note of the long and storied maritime history of the area. We recommend starting off with a visit to the Lewes Historical Society to make a plan.

Fort Delaware: Visit A Civil War Prison on an Island in the Middle of the Delaware River!

Civil War-era cannonballs seen at Fort Delaware on Pea Patch Island

Located on Pea Patch Island in the middle of the Delaware River, visiting Fort Delaware is like taking a step back in time! Accessible only by Ferry (the Delafort, which departs from Delaware City, DE and Fort Mott, NJ during the summer months), Fort Delaware offers a peak at what life was like during the Civil War. Beyond the history, Pea Patch Island is also home to nine different species of herons, egrets, and ibis, and is one of the largest wading bird nesting areas on the East Coast, so make sure to bring your binoculars and an interest in the local wildlife as well!

For The Outdoor Enthusiast

Options abound in the First State.

Bike Path Cape Henlopen

Cape Henlopen State Park

Did you know that there are hundreds of millions of acres of public land in the United States? Ranging from National Forests to State Parks, they’re held in the public trust for Americans to enjoy. And, one of the oldest examples of public land happens to be located just a mile down the road from the Lewes Terminal, at Cape Henlopen State Park. After being granted to him in the late 1600’s, William Penn proclaimed that Cape Henlopen and its natural resources were to be for the common usage of the citizens of Lewes and Sussex County, and the land has remained in the public domain ever since.

Nowadays, you can go for a hike, or ride a bike on the network of trails (Gordon’s Pond is a great choice), hit the beach for some relaxation, surfing, fishing or boating, tour the Nature Center, check out the Beach Plum Nature Preserve, observe some military history, and even go camping!

For the Beer Lover

Pedal your way to a pint!

Delaware does a lot of things well, but two of the things it does best are bicycling, and craft beer. The state is consistently ranked as one of the best states for bicycling in the US (#6 in the most recent League of American Bicyclists rankings), offering a variety of options for everyone from serious cyclists to casual cruisers. It’s also home to some great beer. Check that, a lot of great beer. And, fortunately, we’ve mapped out a Pints & Pedals tour that combines both, all within ridable distance of the Lewes Ferry terminal!

For The Family Looking for Fun

Rehoboth Beach and The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Got a sweet tooth? Dolle’s is not just an iconic landmark, it’s got everything you could possibly need to feed your need (they’re famous for caramel corn and salt water taffy, both of which are must-try items). Beyond Dolle’s, there are plenty of options for ice cream, as well as a long list of places to grab a great snack, sit down for a meal, or pick-up something to go. Pop in and out of local shops and boutiques, run down to the beach, or just get some exercise on the mile-long stretch of boardwalk.

For the Foodie

Go on a Seafood Safari!

Spend any amount of time around the waters of the Delaware Bay or the Atlantic Ocean, and you’re bound to kick up a craving for some fresh seafood. Fortunately, Delaware has plenty of options to choose from! Whether you opt for a whirlwind tour or break it out into multiple trips (it’s a great excuse to keep coming back!), sampling seafood is always an amazing adventure. From Matt’s Fish Camp in Lewes to Fork + Flask, Dogfish Head’s Chesapeake & Maine, and the Henlopen City Oyster House in Rehoboth Beach, there are a myriad of options all within easy reach of the Lewes Ferry terminal.

For the Nature Lover

Break out the Bino’s!

Got an eye for wildlife? Great! Delaware offers some amazing opportunities to spot local species. In fact, you can start spotting right from the Ferry; we commonly see osprey, eagles, dolphins, and even a whale every now and then. Once you’re on land in Delaware, Cape Henlopen State Park offers a wide variety of options for wildlife watching. Or, if you’re up for a longer trip and want to see more of the First State, check out the locations on the Visit Delaware site.

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10 Facts About The NJ Coast Guard

April 30, 2018 by administrator

New Jersey has a long history and special relationship with the Coast Guard. It’s one reason Cape May County was designated as a Coast Guard Community in 2015.

Check out these 9 other milestones that give the U.S. Coast Guard a special place in New Jersey’s heart:

Federally funded life-saving stations graced Cape May County’s shores as early as 1849. Some of these, including Ocean City’s 1885 Life Saving Station 30, are still standing and operate as museums or civic buildings.
The first permanent Coast Guard Air Station was in Cape May in 1926.
In the 1920s, the Coast Guard patrolled the waters of the Jersey coast to foil rumrunners during Prohibition.
During World War II, the Coast Guard Mounted Beach Patrol rode the beaches of Cape May County’s barrier islands on horseback, as well as walked the sandy stretches with German Shepherds to watch for German U-boats.
The only Coast Guard Uniform Distribution Center is located in Woodbine, NJ in Cape May County. The Center ships uniforms, medals, ribbons and accessories all over the world.
Sewell’s Point, the large expanse of oceanfront land where the 350-acre TRACEN (training center) is now located, was once the site of an amusement park, and was a facility shared with the U.S Navy form 1924-1946.
The World War II-era Cutter Tamaroa, which played a key role in the rescue effort documented in The Perfect Storm was sunk in 2016 to help create an artificial barrier reef off the coast of Cape May. The site, about 30 miles off shore, was already home to other downed ships.
The oldest Coast Guard boat station is in Sandy Hook, NJ.
Air Station Atlantic City became operational in May 1998. Located at the William J. Hughes Federal Aviation Administration Tech Center at AC International Airport, the station serves as base to the orange USCG helicopters frequently seen along the South Jersey coastline and Delaware Bay.

In August 2018, the Coast Guard is celebrating it’s 225th birthday. For more facts of interest not always NJ-based, visit USO.org to see 25 facts for 225 years of Coast Guard history

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Cape May’s Deep Ties To The Coast Guard

April 30, 2018 by administrator

A Proud Coast Guard Community

Cape May, New Jersey is known for many things; the Victorian homes in Cape May, sandy beaches and great restaurants, and being one of the world’s premier birdwatching destinations. Yet, it’s the area’s newest national honor that makes it most proud — A Coast Guard Community.

The official county-wide designation was bestowed on May 8, 2015 and was one that involved a rigorous application process and approval by not only the U.S. Coast Guard but both houses of Congress. Only 18 cities and one other county have received the designation, which recognizes an above-and-beyond bond between the Coast Guard and the community.

Cape May’s ties go back to the early 1800s when the Guard first established a presence with 12 Life Saving Stations in the area. That bond grew tighter after the establishment of the Training Center (TRACEN) on Sewell’s Point in 1948. And, since 1982, TRACEN has been the only USCG training facility for enlisted personnel in the country. That means that 80% of the current force have all gone through Cape May in their Coast Guard careers.

TRACEN is the third largest employer in Cape May County, bringing in an estimated $174 million in direct and indirect revenue to the county. About 40,000 family and friends of graduating “Coasties” come to Cape May every year – year-round. Many from the north drive down via the Garden State Parkway, while others more west fly into regional airports before driving, and those coming from the south frequently drive over via the Cape May-Lewes Ferry.

Strong Community Connection

Aerial photo of the USCG water tower in Cape May, NJ

Members of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and CG Auxiliary (a volunteer group) connect with the community in a variety of ways. Their biggest connection is through the Partnership in Education Program. In it, Guardsmen work directly with students both in and out of the classroom to heighten awareness of traditional Coast Guard values: drug-free lifestyle, emphasis on scholarship, personal initiative, responsibility and individual self-worth.

The Coast Guard also offers boating safety classes, helps with turtle hatching and other wildlife protection and rescue activities, offers tours of TRACEN to school groups and the public by reservation on weekends, presents Sunset Parades at the base open to the public, and helps at local events such as music festivals, Harborfest, and community parades.

The connection to Cape May is far stronger for most Coasties than just memories of Boot Camp days. More than a few have fallen in love with locals, gotten married, bought houses, and settled down or retired here post active service. For instance, retired Coast Guard officer Tom Carroll and his wife Sue were pioneers in the B&B business in Cape May when they opened their first inn, the Main Stay, in 1972. They remain very active in the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts — so much so that the Carriage House Gallery on The Emlen Physick Estate was renamed The Carroll Gallery in their honor.

Related Post: 10 NJ Facts About the Coast Guard

For their part, civilian community residents take considerable efforts to make the Guard — especially new recruits — feel at home. Every year, through Operation Fireside, more than 180 Cape May families open their homes to 500+ recruits for a traditional meal on Thanksgiving and Christmas while they are away from their own families and traditions.

The Coast Guard Family Assistance Fund helps bring friends and family of graduating recruits to Cape May every week, often paying plane fares and, in cooperation with local hotels and motels, arranging for free or reduced-rate stays.

Festival Opens TRACEN To The Public

Since receiving the Coast Guard Community designation in 2015, signs have been distributed throughout the county so visitors in each municipality are greeted with blue signs announcing they’re entering “A Proud Coast Guard Community.” The idea is that for all passers-by to clearly see the Coast Guard seal and be reminded about the significant USCG presence in the area.

The annual Cape May Coast Guard Community Festival, held the first weekend in May, is an outgrowth of that designation. “The festival is an opportunity for the community to have access to TRACEN one day a year and learn more about the Coast Guard through ship tours, search and rescue demonstrations, guided trolley tours, and observing recruits during the day,” said Mike Couch, executive director of the Cape May County Community Foundation.

The Foundation hopes to continue to grow the weekend festival into a longer event, but for now it starts with Friday night ceremonies, continues with the Saturday festival on base, and ends with closing ceremonies on Sunday.

For more information on the Community Foundation visit CoastGuardCommunity.org, or call 609-888-6120. Donations are always welcomed, but opportunities also exist for sponsorships of key events and programs, and volunteer positions to help organize and work the various events involved in the Festival.

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Lewes Through The Lens Of Time

June 27, 2017 by administrator

Past and Present Come Together in Lewes, DE

When you only get to see your sisters once or twice a year, you make the most of the time spent together. That’s exactly what Linda does when she visits her sisters Nancy and Trish in their hometown of Lewes, DE every year.

Passengers posing for picture inside the Motor Vessel

“She has a bucket list,” says Nancy, “and it gets longer every time we see her. This trip is on it, so today we rode over to Cape May for lunch.” The sisters, along with their aunt Betty Ann and their childhood friend Sandi (both of whom also live in Lewes), make it a point to go to Cape May for lunch once every summer, and on their way back to Lewes they were already planning their trip for next year, wanting to go into Cape May rather than staying at the Ferry’s terminal.

What started as a discussion about their day trip turned into a reflection on the town of Lewes: how it’s changed, how it’s stayed the same, and why they’ve stayed for so many years.

Nancy, Trish, Linda and Sandi lived on the same street growing up and went to Lewes High School together, so they’ve seen the growth and development of Lewes firsthand.

“We lived in Lewes when there were horses in the backyards and dogs roaming around the streets,” says Sandi. “Sometimes you might even see a chicken,” Trish adds. The town did seem to revolve around the chicken and fish factories, after all. At one time, Lewes was even the largest fishing port in the United States. The factories were what supported the town and its citizens for decades.

“If the wind blew one way, you’d smell the fish factory; if it blew the other way, you’d smell the chicken factory; if it was a good day, the wind wouldn’t blow at all,” Betty Ann says, only half joking.

The day before their annual trip to Cape May, the group took a quite literal walk down memory lane, during which they walked the streets of Lewes, stopping at all of the landmarks they frequently visited growing up, reminiscing on their memories. “We even ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches by the canal for lunch,” Trish says of the afternoon. “It was like we were kids again.”

Despite everything that has changed in Lewes over the years, the women still remember why people go in the first place, and why most of them never left.

“The good thing about Lewes is that if you’re walking or driving down the streets, it’s because you want to be there,” they all agree. Lewes lies away from Route 1, which runs through most of the other Delaware beaches, meaning there aren’t so many people passing through the town. It’s more of a destination than a town that people drive through on their way to their final stop. Everyone walking the streets of Lewes is exactly where they want to be.

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Cape May Museums

June 3, 2017 by administrator

Cape May History: Step Back in Time

Whether you’re looking for an escape from the brisk autumn winds or need a rainy day activity, Cape May Museums offer intriguing options for keeping everyone in your traveling party engaged. Here are a few worth visiting, even on the most colorful and crisp fall days.

Historic Cold Spring Village

Cold Spring Brewery, built in 2016 with old barn wood in an 1804 barn style

720 Route 9 South
Cape May, NJ 08204

609.898.2300

This interactive museum lets you travel back in time to the “age of homespun” between 1789 and 1840. A visit can include a walk around 30 acres of land, or a visit to one or more of 26 restored historic buildings. During your visit, you will have the chance to meet historically clothed interpreters who educate you about the lifestyle and issues of the time. Children can join in the festivities, trying on costumes, making crafts, and playing the games of that time. Many visit just to dine at the Cold Spring Garage Restaurant, the only building standing in its original site, imbibe at the “new” Cold Spring Brewery built in an 1804 styled barn, or just treat themselves at the on site bakery, ice cream parlor, or country store.

For more info: https://hcsv.org/

Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum

Jet fighter on display at Naval Air Station Wildwood museum.

500 Forrestal Road
Cape May Airport, NJ 08242

609.886.8787

Stop inside Hanger One to see dozens of historic airplanes, helicopters, jet aircrafts, and more. Carefully curated to reflect the naval history of the South Jersey, Naval Air Station Wildwood (NASW) is now celebrating its 20th anniversary. Interactive exhibits include airplanes from WWII, the watch tower from Bader Field (Atlantic City’s original and the nation’s first airport), and exhibits dedicated to the Coast Guard. Everyone from vets to budding pilots and historical buffs love exploring every nook and cranny of this memorable space. Make sure to test your docent’s knowledge when inside and find out why it’s called Naval Air Station Wildwood, but is located on the property of Cape May Airport, and is really located in Erma! You’ll be sure to come to the conclusion that someone was imbibing at nearby Cape May Brewery, long before the brewery was there!

For more info: usnasw.org

Cape May Fire Department Museum

643 Washington Street
Cape May, NJ 08204

609.884.9512

This small museum is filled with powerful stories and history. It is free and open to the public for all to enjoy. Learn the history of the Cape May Fire Department and see their antique 1928 American La France Fire Engine.

Emlen Physick Estate

1048 Washington Street
Cape May, NJ 08204

609.884.5404

Travel back into Victorian times as you walk into the Physick Estate. Admire the architecture and decorative arts, and learn about this notable Cape May family. This estate gives you an insight on the changing lifestyle of the past and is a unique place to visit. Operated by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC), the estate includes a Carriage House Cafe and Team Room and is part of area trolley tours. If coming from points south, consider a Ferry day trip excursion in the summer directly to the estate.

For more info: capemaymac.org

The Museum of Cape May County

504 Route 9 North
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210

609.465.3535

Learn about the county’s original settlers in the 1600s into the 1800s as you walk through the museum. Catch a glimpse of what a doctor’s office looked like in the 1700s with all the different tools and pharmaceuticals that were used. You will also be able to see what a family’s home that was built in 1704 was like, and the changes that were made into the 1800s. Stop to see their new room that pays honor to those who have served, from the Revolutionary War to the current. The museum also serves as a genealogical research area to help people explore their Cape May County roots.

For more info: cmcmuseum.org

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4 Must-See Museums In Delaware

May 25, 2017 by administrator

Dive Into Delaware's History!

A day trip on the Ferry can be a fun way to enjoy both sides of the Delaware Bay any time of the year! During the chillier months, you can explore indoors with these unique Delaware museums, all within an easy drive of the Lewes Ferry Terminal.

Zwaanendael Museum – Lewes

Take a unique look at Lewes, Delaware’s first European settlement, and the role it played in the War of 1812. Experience the vast history of southern Delaware through artifacts as well as exhibits featuring shipwrecks and lighthouses. Don’t miss the museum’s most popular attraction, The Fiji Merman, a half monkey, half sea monster that locals call “Monkeyfish.” Free admission.
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-4:15pm
For info: delaware.gov, or 302-645-1148

Johnson Victrola Museum – Dover

Travel back in time to the early 20th century, seeing and listening to real phonographs from that time. At this museum in Dover, DE, you can experience one of the early innovations in recorded sound, the Victor Talking Machine, and learn about the life and work of E.R. Johnson, the Delaware-native who made this technology possible.
Free admission.
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 9:30am-4pm
For info: delaware.gov, or 302-739-3262

Air Mobility Command Museum – Dover Air Force Base

Well, some of this museum is outdoors, but plenty of great indoor exhibits! Helicopters, fighters, cargo haulers, and even a presidential aircraft are just some of the amazing things you’ll see at the Air Mobility Command Museum in Dover, DE. You can step inside some of the planes, or test your skills on the flight simulator!
Free admission & parking.
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 9am-4pm
For info: amcmuseum.org, or 302-677-5938

Nanticoke Indian Museum – Millsboro

The Nanticoke Indian Museum is home to much of the history and artifacts of the Nanticoke Indian tribe. During your trip, see one-of-a-kind jewelry, pottery and much more, all while immersing yourself in the local history of the Nanticoke Indian Tribe.
Admission: Adults $3, Children $1
Winter hours: Thursday-Saturday, 10am – 4pm
For info: nanticokeindians.org, or 302-945-7022

Things to Do: History & Museums

Things To Do

February 4, 2021

Celebrating a Milestone at the Lewes Terminal

“You’re not in trouble…”

STELLAR VIEWS

THE BEAUTY IS ENDLESS

Fun, Adventure, and Incredible Experiences In the First State!

For History Buffs

Dive into Delaware's history!

Historic Lewes: The First Town in the First State

Fort Delaware: Visit A Civil War Prison on an Island in the Middle of the Delaware River!

For The Outdoor Enthusiast

Options abound in the First State.

Cape Henlopen State Park

For the Beer Lover

Pedal your way to a pint!

For The Family Looking for Fun

Rehoboth Beach and The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

For the Foodie

Go on a Seafood Safari!

For the Nature Lover

Break out the Bino’s!

DOLPHINS & WHALES

OH THE THINGS YOU'LL SEE

Ready To Sail?

Check Out The Latest Edition of the Twin Capes Traveller!

Ready To Sail?

A Proud Coast Guard Community

Strong Community Connection

Festival Opens TRACEN To The Public

Ready To Sail?

Past and Present Come Together in Lewes, DE

Explore Things To Do In The Area

Things To Do in Ocean City, Maryland

New Year, New Adventures: 10 Ferry Travel Resolutions for 2026

Catch the Best Sunsets in the World

Cape May History: Step Back in Time

Historic Cold Spring Village

Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum

Cape May Fire Department Museum

Emlen Physick Estate

The Museum of Cape May County

Catch the Best Sunsets in the World

Dive Into Delaware's History!

Zwaanendael Museum – Lewes

Johnson Victrola Museum – Dover

Air Mobility Command Museum – Dover Air Force Base

Nanticoke Indian Museum – Millsboro

Things to Do: History & Museums

Must-Do Delaware Activities

Visiting Sussex County, DE

DOLPHINS & WHALES

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