Delaware River and Bay Authority officials joined with representatives from both New Jersey and Delaware to announce the relocation and rebranding of the Three Forts Ferry system. The renamed “Delaware City-Salem Ferry” will operate between Delaware City, Delaware; Fort Delaware on Pea Patch Island, and Barber’s Basin at the Port of Salem. The passenger ferry service will begin its public schedule on May 4.
“We’re really excited to bring the service to the City of Salem,” said Ceil Smith, DRBA Commissioner from Salem County. “Although Superstorm Sandy dealt the ferry service a blow, we had the ability to turn a negative situation into a positive one. The opportunity to relocate the dock closer to the City of Salem offers visitors more opportunities to enjoy the heritage and eco-tourism that the City of Salem has to offer.” The Delaware City-Salem Ferry will begin public service in May, operating on Saturdays and on Memorial Day weekend, and then on Saturdays and Sundays in early June. Beginning June 12, the ferry service will operate up to five days a week, Wednesday through Sunday (and holidays) through September 2, 2013. For details and group reservations call 877-98-PARKS.
“I am very excited to have the DRBA ferry docking locally, connecting the historic towns of Salem City, New Jersey with Delaware City, Delaware,” said Charles Washington, Jr., mayor of the City of Salem. “We are looking forward to helping increase ridership from the New Jersey side for the ferry and even more so to receive riders who can experience the history, architecture and fine business establishments of Salem City.”
“The Delaware City-Salem Ferry links the tale of two cities rich in many natural and historic treasures and architectural styles with the Civil War Fort Delaware on Pea Patch Island.” said Scott Green, executive director of the Delaware River and Bay Authority. “And because the City of Salem was a key stop on the Underground Railroad, visitors can now experience another slice of history from this era.”
