Discover Lewes’s coastal beauty and local flavors with the Vine & Brine oyster and wine cruise—an engaging water adventure blending scenery, education, and exquisite tastings. Read more to learn why this cruise is a standout coastal experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No physical fitness required, suitable for all ages
Wildlife
History
Lewes has a rich maritime history dating back to the 17th century, with its lighthouse guiding ships along the coast since 1858.
Conservation
The cruise partners with local organizations to promote sustainable fishing and coastal habitat preservation.
Cape Water Tours
Discover Lewes’s coastal beauty and local flavors with the Vine & Brine oyster and wine cruise—an engaging water adventure blending scenery, education, and exquisite tastings. Read more to learn why this cruise is a standout coastal experience.
Cape Water Tours is a Lewes, Delaware-based boat tour operator delivering guided cruises and themed excursions across the Delaware Bay, Rehoboth Bay, and local canals.
Operating scheduled departures from the Lewes Ferry Terminal, Anglers Road, and Grove Park/Rehoboth Museum, Cape Water Tours offers lighthouse visits to the East End Lighthouse, dolphin-watching cruises, full moon and sunset sails, eco and oyster farm tours, narrated seal and bird-watching trips, live music nights, interactive murder-mystery performances, canal cruises, water taxi services, and seasonal holiday sails.
Several trips feature local partners and subject-matter experts, including collaborations with the MERR Institute for marine mammal monitoring and citizen science, performances with the Sussex County Singers, and interpretive cruises with Delaware State Parks. Select excursions, such as narrated seal and bird-watching trips led by Captain Madie, provide focused wildlife education, while eco tours and oyster experiences explain shellfish aquaculture and its environmental benefits.
Safety and guest experience are central: vessels operate under applicable local regulations with trained crew and hosted narration designed for families, couples, and small groups. Booking info, current schedules, departure details, and accessibility or age guidance are available through Cape Water Tours’ public listings.
Passengers of all ages are welcomed aboard; parking and nearby amenities are available at departure sites for convenient access and seasonal.
Location
Lewes, DE
Launches from Lewes harbor and local sites
Departure Points
Lewes Ferry Terminal
Anglers Road and Grove Park also used
Tours Offered
25
Lighthouse, dolphin, eco, music cruises
Community Partners
MERR Institute, Sussex County Singers
Educational and musical collaborations
Secure seats for dolphin watching, lighthouse tours, sunset sails, or eco experiences — limited capacity on popular trips.
Bring sun protection
Sunblock, sunglasses, and hats are recommended for comfort during the cruise.
Dress in layers
Coastal breezes can cool the boat, so wear layers for comfort.
Arrive early
Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth check-in.
Support local conservation
Engage actively in discussions about coastal preservation efforts during the trip.
Sun protection
Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses help protect against sun exposure.
summer
Layered clothing
Dress in layers to stay comfortable in changing weather conditions.
spring|summer|fall
Camera
Capture scenic views and wildlife during the cruise.
Light jacket
Keep warm if breezes pick up or during cooler seasons.
winter|spring|fall