CAPE MAY — The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is suspending operations later today and moving its fleet north to safer waters because of the anticipated effects of Hurricane Sandy.

CAPE MAY — The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is suspending operations later today and moving its fleet north to safer waters because of the anticipated effects of Hurricane Sandy.

According to Jim Salmon, a spokesman for the Delaware River and Bay Authority, the ferry’s operator, service will be halted at least through Tuesday.

The ferry makes the 17-mile trip across the Delaware Bay between Cape May and Lewes, Del. Hurricane Sandy is anticipated to churn up the bay with hurricane-force winds when it strikes the East Coast Monday into Tuesday.

The last departures today be the 6 p.m. ferry from Cape May and the 7:45 p.m. ferry from Lewes, Del.

For the safety of the ferry vessels during Hurricane Sandy, Cape May-Lewes marine personnel are transporting all five vessels upriver.

According to Salmon, they will be docked at the Holt Marine Terminal in Gloucester City on the New Jersey side of the Delaware River across from Philadelphia to ride out the storm.

The MV Twin Capes and MV Cape May left Cape May this morning. Early Sunday morning, the MV Delaware, MV New Jersey and MV Cape Henlopen will make the trek north.

While service could resume sometime Wednesday, it depends on the track of Sandy.

Travelers who plan to use the Cape May-Lewes Ferry later this week can toll-free at 800 643-3779 to determine the status of service or visit the ferry’s website at www.cmlf.com