How do you take the ferry from Nova Scotia to Newfoundland?

Marine Atlantic operates ferry services from North Sydney, Nova Scotia to Newfoundland. There are two routes: North Sydney to Port aux Basques (approximately 7 hours, year-round) and North Sydney to Argentia (approximately 14-15 hours, summer seasonal). Book in advance at marineatlantic.ca or call 1-800-341-7981. North Sydney is approximately 4 hours from Halifax.

How long is the ferry from Nova Scotia to Newfoundland?

The North Sydney to Port aux Basques crossing takes approximately 7 hours. The North Sydney to Argentia crossing takes approximately 14 to 15 hours. North Sydney is approximately 430 km (4 hours) from Halifax.

How much does the ferry from Nova Scotia to Newfoundland cost?

A one-way passenger ticket on Marine Atlantic is approximately $43.78 plus HST. Vehicle transport is additional. Call 1-800-341-7981 or visit marineatlantic.ca for current vehicle rates and schedules, which vary seasonally.

Newfoundland Travel Guide

Newfoundland Ferry
from Nova Scotia

Two routes, both from North Sydney. What it costs, how long it takes, and how to book.

Marine Atlantic operates the ferry service from Nova Scotia to Newfoundland. Ferries depart from North Sydney, Nova Scotia approximately 4 hours from Halifax to either Port aux Basques or Argentia in Newfoundland.

The Two Routes

Route	Crossing Time	Season	Arrives At	Cost Approx.
North Sydney to Port aux Basques	~7 hours	Year-round	Western NL near Gros Morne	From ~$43.78/person + vehicle
North Sydney to Argentia	~14-15 hours	Summer seasonal	Eastern NL near St. John’s	Higher than Port aux Basques route

Marine Atlantic Contact and Booking

Phone: 1-800-341-7981. Email: reservations@marineatlantic.ca. Head Office: 10 Fort William Place, St. John’s, NL A1C 1K4. Online booking: marineatlantic.ca. Book vehicle reservations well ahead especially for peak summer travel.

Getting to North Sydney from Halifax

North Sydney is approximately 430 kilometres from Halifax about 4 hours via the Trans-Canada Highway east through Antigonish and into Cape Breton. From Halifax to arriving in Newfoundland (Port aux Basques route): approximately 11 to 12 hours total including sailing time. Allow sufficient time for a meal stop on the drive to North Sydney.

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Which Route Is Right for You

Port aux Basques (7 hours, cheaper, year-round) is the right choice if your trip focuses on Gros Morne and western Newfoundland. Argentia (14-15 hours, summer seasonal) deposits you near St. John’s and is the right choice if your trip focuses on the Avalon Peninsula. For a cross-island road trip, consider ferrying in at Port aux Basques and flying home from St. John’s.

Tips for the Nova Scotia to Newfoundland Ferry

Book vehicle reservations well in advance especially for July and August when crossings fill weeks ahead. Arrive at the North Sydney terminal at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled departure for vehicles. Be flexible with your itinerary as weather conditions may affect ferry schedules. Bring entertainment and snacks for the crossing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Marine Atlantic from North Sydney, NS. Two routes: North Sydney to Port aux Basques (7 hrs, year-round) and North Sydney to Argentia (14-15 hrs, summer). Book at marineatlantic.ca or call 1-800-341-7981.

North Sydney to Port aux Basques: approximately 7 hours. North Sydney to Argentia: approximately 14-15 hours. Plus 4 hours driving Halifax to North Sydney.

Passenger one-way approximately $43.78 plus HST. Vehicle additional. Call 1-800-341-7981 or check marineatlantic.ca for current vehicle rates.

Planning Your Newfoundland Trip?

Book your rental car at your arrival airport or ferry terminal. Both sell out in summer.

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