Discover the Cape-Henlopen: Ratings & Maritime News

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is set to enjoy a significant boost following the announcement on Monday that it has been awarded a $6 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration, made possible through the Passenger Ferry Grant Program. This funding will be utilized to repower and retrofit both the Motor Vessel (MV) New Jersey and the MV Cape Henlopen, which have been in operation for over 40 years. These aging vessels are due for a major update, as their engines have logged nearly 100,000 operating hours—equating to an impressive 1.5 million miles. James Hogan, Vice Chairman of the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA), emphasized the importance of this project, highlighting that the new engines will not only enhance efficiency but also significantly lower fuel consumption. The anticipated improvement is a reduction in emissions by nearly 40 percent. Public Information Officer James Salmon further elaborated on the financial benefits, noting that the ferry service expects to cut maintenance costs by approximately $130,000 annually, and looks forward to reducing fuel consumption by 39,600 gallons and CO2 emissions by an impressive 443 tons each year. This grant represents a pivotal step towards modernizing the Cape May-Lewes Ferry's fleet, ensuring a more sustainable and economical future for this vital transportation service.