The DRBA emphasizes the Cape May–Lewes Ferry as a regional infrastructure asset and heritage link, underscoring its role as a vital transportation connector and economic catalyst for southern Delaware and southern New Jersey.

Since 1964, the Cape May–Lewes Ferry has carried over 50 million passengers and supported thousands of regional jobs, highlighting the importance of the modernization project for Cape May and Lewes.

DRBA governs multiple transportation assets, including the ferry, Delaware Memorial Bridge, and several airports in the region, with revenues generated from these facilities.

The project will replace the MV Cape Henlopen, a diesel-powered vessel over 40 years old, with a hybrid diesel-electric ferry that should cut fuel use by about 35% and reduce CO2 emissions by roughly 2,025 tons annually.

The new vessel will operate in hybrid and all-electric modes, delivering environmental benefits such as annual reductions of 2,025 tons of CO2, 102.7 tons of NO2, 1.51 tons of PM, 1.03 tons of hydrocarbons, and 5 tons of CO, alongside a 35% fuel savings.

The 75-car passenger/vehicle ferry will replace the MV Cape Henlopen and is slated to join the fleet in 2028 after construction begins early next year.

The project includes a $20 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant, with construction anticipated to begin in early 2026 and the new ferry entering service in the summer of 2029.

Funding for the project includes the $20 million federal grant and DRBA contributions to cover the remaining costs.

The DRBA Commission approved the contract in its November 18, 2025 meeting, subject to review and consent by the Governors of New Jersey and Delaware.

The contract was issued to SENESCO Marine of North Kingstown, Rhode Island to build a new hybrid-powered Cape May–Lewes Ferry.

The modernization effort fits a broader 40- to 50-year fleet renewal strategy and reflects the ferries’ significant economic impact, including job creation and regional economic contributions.

The new ferry is designed to carry up to 800 passengers and a substantial number of vehicles, maintaining the 17-mile cross-bay route between Lewes and Cape May.

The modernization aligns with environmental and operational goals, aiming to improve reliability and provide a modernized, more efficient link for hundreds of thousands of annual riders.

DRBA awarded a $78.6 million contract to SENESCO Marine LLC to construct the diesel-hybrid 75-car ferry, with delivery anticipated in 2028 and entry into service in 2029.