The short answer
DRBA CAPE MAY FERRY is an authentic transportation charge from the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) for vehicle and foot passenger ferry travel aboard the Cape May-Lewes Ferry across the Delaware Bay between New Jersey and Delaware.
Why DRBA Billed Your Statement
A charge listed as DRBA CAPE MAY FERRY on your bank or credit card statement is an official fare assessment from the Delaware River and Bay Authority. This bi-state agency operates the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, which carries cars, trucks, motorcycles, and foot passengers across the Delaware Bay between North Cape May, New Jersey, and Lewes, Delaware. A billing entry under this name confirms a transaction for Delaware River & Bay Authority Cape May-Lewes Ferry Fare, whether for advance travel reservations or on-site terminal services. Charges typically range from $12.00 for a single passenger walk-on ticket to $145.00 or more for standard vehicle crossings or larger passenger parties.
This charge posts when you book passage across the bay or buy items at the terminal. Drivers often reserve vehicle slots weeks or months ahead through the ferry reservation website at cmlf.com to avoid long waits during peak summer weekends. The transaction can also represent in-person ticket purchases at the toll plaza, vehicle modification fees, bicycle surcharges, or retail purchases made at terminal concessions on either shore. If you took a road trip along the Mid-Atlantic coast to bypass Interstate 95 traffic between New Jersey and Delaware or Maryland beaches, this toll is the standard fare for your vessel crossing.
Check your travel itinerary and email inbox for a booking confirmation from cmlf.com containing your departure date and confirmation code. If you must adjust your travel plans, the Delaware River and Bay Authority permits vehicle reservation cancellations up to two hours prior to departure for a refund minus a standard cancellation fee. In cases where the ferry cancels departures due to severe weather or rough bay waters, the authority automatically processes full refunds back to your original payment card. If you have not traveled near New Jersey or Delaware and suspect fraudulent use of your card, contact customer support at 800-643-3779 or notify your card issuer to contest the unauthorized transaction.
- Advance vehicle booking for ferry travel across the Delaware Bay
- Passenger walk-on ticket purchased at the Cape May or Lewes ferry terminal
- Reservation amendment or change fee on vehicle bookings
- Food and beverage or retail purchase made at the ferry terminal
- Search your email inbox for an advance reservation confirmation from cmlf.com.
- Verify whether you or someone in your household traveled along the Mid-Atlantic coast.
- Check whether the transaction amount matches the standard vehicle plus passenger toll schedule.
Can I cancel a Cape May-Lewes Ferry reservation for a refund?
Vehicle reservations can be cancelled up to 2 hours prior to scheduled departure for a refund minus a cancellation processing fee.
What should I do if bad weather caused my ferry crossing to be cancelled?
When crossings are cancelled by the DRBA due to weather or mechanical reasons, full refunds are automatically issued to the original credit card.
Independent reference — not affiliated with Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA). Billing names and policies change; verify with the merchant or your bank before acting.
Verified sources
Every claim on this page is checked against official sources — open them to confirm before you call your bank.
- Cape May-Lewes Ferry Fares and Rates https://www.cmlf.com/fares
- Cape May-Lewes Ferry Reservation and Travel Policies https://www.cmlf.com/policies
Reviewed Sep 11, 2026 · high · About UnknownCharges