Planning a vacation to Newfoundland and wondering what it’s like to take the ferry? If you’re debating whether or not the extra effort to get there is worth it, it is! We are wrapping up a two week road trip and the island exceeded our expectations around every corner.
Marine Atlantic Ferry to Newfoundland
Road tripping is the best way to explore Canada’s easternmost province. Click here if you are interested in reading our Newfoundland Road Trip Itinerary with all our suggested things to see and do!
The island is massive with a nine-hour drive between ferry ports.
You can fly in and rent a car or bring your own car on one of the Marine Atlantic ferries from North Sydney.
If you are from the United States and are also wondering how to cross the border into Canada by car right now, click here to read about our experience.
There are two options for a ferry to Newfoundland from Nova Scotia; both leave from North Sydney and both offer an overnight ferry to Newfoundland.
How long is the ferry ride to Newfoundland?
The Port aux Basques route runs all year long arriving on the southwest part of the island and is roughly six to eight hours long with two sailings a day.
The Argentia route runs seasonally from June through September arriving on the southeast part of the island and is roughly fifteen hours long. There are only three sailings a week for the longer ferry.
How far in advance to book ferry to Newfoundland. As soon as you decide to visit Newfoundland, I recommend reserving your ferry tickets.
NOTE: Currently, the ferries are selling fewer tickets than normal to allow for physical distancing in the seating area. Every other row is cordoned off.
The summer crossings in July and August are the busiest and book up early.
You are allowed to modify or cancel the reservation within 48 hours of your scheduled departure but there is a $25.00 fee.
We tried reserving tickets in mid-July for mid-August (so a month in advance) and could not get a return ticket on the Argentia route for the night we needed.
Even though it added a lot more driving to our itinerary, we ended up taking the Port aux Basque ferry to Newfoundland and back because of the limited availability.
With only three sailings a week, planning ahead is highly recommended.
Since we didn’t book far in advance, we were disappointed to discover all the private cabins were reserved already as well on both ferries.
But since we ended up taking the daytime ferry both ways and with the comfortable seating area (more on that below), we ended up being happy not to have spent the extra money. A cabin is an additional fee on top of the passenger and vehicle charge.
All Aboard! Here’s what to expect on the ferry ride.
Once you book your reservation, you’ll be told to arrive at least two hours prior to departure to check-in, or your tickets might be voided and given to another customer.
I thought a two-hour window was a little ridiculous since the ride is six hours long but I didn’t realize the ferry starts loading passengers early.
We arrived at 10:00 am on a Sunday for our 12:15 pm departure and they began announcements for loading at 10:20 am and began filling the ship at 10:40 am.
For check-in, makes sure to have your reservation number and a valid government-issued photo like your passport or driver’s license.
During the short wait at the terminal, there is a lounge area with seats, bathrooms, and a water station.
Currently, due to Covid, the food options and gift shops are closed.
What to Bring On Board
Once you drive onboard, you’ll leave your car and will not be able to access it so make sure to plan ahead on what to bring up.
- Food
- Water &/or Drinks
- Sweatshirt or Jacket
- Binoculars
- Charger
- Earbuds
Even on a warm day, you’ll need layers whether it’s on deck with the wind blowing or inside with the air conditioner on high.
TIP: You can find free comfy blankets near the doors on each floor.
There’s normally a few stores, restaurant and a cafe available onboard but during Covid, only to-go options are available at the cafe.
The cafe offers four kinds of paninis for $8.99, slices of pizza for $6.50, pre-made cold sandwiches for $4.99, soup, small salads, some other snacks, and coffee are also available.
We brought our own sandwiches and drinks on so we didn’t try any of the food, but thought most items are reasonably priced considering it’s the only option on the boat.
We boarded fairly early and were able to grab a window seat on the 7th floor – open to everyone.
The ferry has WI-FI available on the 8th floor but multiple people said it is spotty. But if you’d like to try for it, make sure to head up to the 8th floor straight away.
Our cell service (T-mobile) worked on and off inside the ferry but outside on the top deck we had a great connection most of the way.
Should You Book a Cabin
When we saw how spacious the seating areas are and that they have tray tables and USB plugs, we were happy we didn’t spend the extra money for the cabin.
There’s a ton of leg room and the floor is quiet since most people read or sleep.
An overnight ferry to Newfoundland takes 15 hours. It would probably be worth the extra cost for the private bed and bath for a good night’s sleep, but I think you could probably sleep quite comfortably if not.
How much is a cabin on the car ferry to Newfoundland? On the Argentia route:
- 2 bed cabin is $176.75
- 4 bed cabin is $194.50
- Deluxe cabin is $246.50
On the Port aux Basques route:
- 2 bed cabin – day is $53.50
- 2 bed cabin – night is $126.50
- 4 bed cabin – day is $58.50
- 4 bed cabin – night is $139.50
- Deluxe cabin – day is $112.50
- Deluxe cabin – night is $169.25
Will You Get Seasick
Unfortunately, if you suffer from motion sickness like me, there’s a chance of getting seasick on any boat, but luckily the days we sailed it was extremely smooth.
I suggest bringing Dramamine just in case based on the weather.
I almost took one when we boarded, but it wasn’t necessary at all.
Will You See Whales
There’s no guarantee for a whale sighting but we were told you’re most likely to see them around Newfoundland.
And guess what?
That’s where we saw them!
We stood on the top deck for the last hour of the ride and we saw a few spouting in the distance.
Travel Declaration
Once you drive off the car ferry onto Newfoundland, you’ll notice a few lines of vehicles. Here is where an agent is checking for Travel Forms.
Make sure to go online beforehand and fill out the appropriate forms. You Can find the Newfoundland Travel Declaration here.
If you have your confirmation number available when you pull up, the process won’t take but a few minutes.
Marine Atlantic Rates 2022
Rates vary depending on how many passengers and the size of the vehicle you’re traveling in.
For us – two adult passengers and an under 20 foot van – the roundtrip total cost was $403.52 ($320 USD) in 2021.
All current passenger rates below are in Canadian dollars.
Port aux Basques to/from Sydney One Way
- Children (ages 5 and under) free
- Children (5 – 12) $20.34
- Adults (13 – 65) $43.78
- Seniors (over 65) $40.23
Vehicle rates vary depending on the size of your automobile, van, or RV.
- Small autos and pickups 20′ or less start at an additional $114.19 with RVs over 60′ $456.18.
Check the Marine Atlantic for additional rates.
Sydney to/from Argentia One Way
- Children (ages 5 and under) free
- Children (5 – 12) $56.39
- Adults (13 – 65) $116.27
- Seniors (over 65) $105.09
Vehicle rates vary depending on the size of your automobile, van, or RV.
- Small autos and pickups 20′ or less start at an additional $234.19 with RVs over 60′ $933.72.
Check Marine Atlantic’s website for the Newfoundland ferry schedule for times and departure days.
Do you have any other questions about taking the ferry to Newfoundland? Ask below!
FAQs
How long does it take to cross on the ferry to Newfoundland? ›
Ferry to Newfoundland
There is year-round service between North Sydney, Nova Scotia and Port aux Basques, in southwestern Newfoundland. Most days have two sailings – morning and evening – and the crossing takes six to eight hours, depending on weather.
Can you sleep in your car on the ferry to Newfoundland? Sleeping on floors, decks, and in vehicles is not permitted. In the event of a sailing delay or vessel switch, accommodations are not guaranteed.
How much does it cost to take the ferry across to Newfoundland? ›The cost of taking the ferry from North Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port-aux-Basques, is just $28 per adult passenger and $79.50 per car. If you're traveling in a larger vehicle, like an RV, there are additional charges along with a 25% fuel surcharge. This ferry operates year-round and offers multiple sailings every day.
How long is ferry from Newfoundland to Nova Scotia? ›The seasonal Argentia – North Sydney ferry route runs up to three times per week from mid-June to late September*, with the MV Atlantic Vision making the one-way journey in approximately 16 hours. The Argentia terminal is fully accessible.
What time of the year is best to visit Newfoundland? ›Generally, this province is a summer destination, though late spring and early fall can be a good time to go as well, depending on what you hope to see and experience.
How many cars does the Newfoundland ferry hold? ›The ship has a max capacity of 961 passengers and 352 cars. The vessel was launched in 2002 and currently operates on the Canadian (Nova Scotia-Newfoundland) ferry route North Sydney-Port aux Basques (crossing time 7 hours, year-round, 7 days a week).
Do dogs stay in car on ferry? ›Every year thousands of dogs join their families and travel by ferry for a holiday. Most crossings require your dog to remain in your vehicle or one of the ferry's kennels and we have teamed up with the RSPCA to help make sure that wherever your dog spends his time, his experience is a positive and enjoyable one.
Should you lock your car on a ferry? ›You cannot access your vehicle during the sailing. If you are unsure how to turn off your alarm, please refer to your vehicle manual. For most vehicles, you should lock the vehicle using the physical key rather than the electronic key fob to prevent the motion sensors being activated.
Can you sit in your car on a ferry? ›If you are wondering if can you stay in your vehicle on a ferry the answer in most cases is no. Once the vessel starts with crossing, you will not be allowed onto the car parking deck as most of the large car ferries for safety reasons, do not allow passengers to stay in their cars.
Is ferry cheaper than flying? ›But flight-free travel isn't just greener – it's often cheaper, too. For mid-distance journeys, a trip by car (and, if needs be, ferry) tends to cost a lot less per passenger than even the budget-est of budget flights.
How many days do you need to visit Newfoundland? ›
Ideally, you should plan a week at a minimum, but two weeks not only gets you to all the highlights but allows you to enjoy them with a few hikes and tours here and there. Here is my suggested Newfoundland road trip itinerary.
How many miles per hour can a ferry go? ›Approximate Speed: 22 knots (or 25mph)
Spend an hour with the breeze in your hair and taking in the views, and before you know it you'll be stepping off onto the islands and enjoying your trip!
2.1 From Nova Scotia to Newfoundland
Year-round vehicle and passenger ferry service is provided by Marine Atlantic between North Sydney, Nova Scotia, and Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. Crossing time is 6 hours.
Newfoundland and Labrador is served by scheduled airlines and charter services, and can be reached via national and international connections. Air Canada, WestJet, Porter and Swoop fly here. Air Canada partners with United Airlines, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, and All Nippon Airlines.
Do you need a passport to ferry to Nova Scotia? ›All travelers are required to show a valid passport to enter both Canada and the United States.
What is the best month to see icebergs in Newfoundland? ›Icebergs are best viewed in late May and early June along the coast of Newfoundland, and between March and July along the coast of Labrador. Bergs are actually most plentiful in April and May but are often trapped in sea ice that prevents tour boats from operating.
When can you see Northern Lights in Newfoundland? ›Newfoundland and Labrador
While it's possible to see the lights between September and April, the region has two main aurora periods: September to October and March to April.
The best time to go whale watching in Newfoundland are from mid-May to September, with the peak season being from mid-July to mid-August.
How much does it cost to take an RV on the ferry to Newfoundland? ›The vehicle ferry to Newfoundland is an adventure in itself for mainlanders on their first trip to the Rock. We boarded with our motorhome at North Sydney, Nova Scotia for the seven hour voyage to Channel- Port Aux Basques, NL. The cost for two passengers and our 30 foot motor home was $278, one way.
What is the biggest passenger ferry in the world? ›The Stena Hollandica is the largest combined freight and passenger ferry in the world. It is the first of two Ropax ships built at the Nordic Yards shipyard in Wismar, Germany.
What is the largest passenger ferry in North America? ›
With a fleet of more than 35 vehicle-carrying vessels, 24 routes, and 47 ports of call, British Columbia Ferry Services is the largest passenger ferry system in North America.
How do you calm a dog down on a ferry? ›Bringing a familiar blanket or toy along on the journey can help pets feel at ease. Dog or cat pheromone sprays can help to have a calming effect on anxious pets. For extremely stressed pets, prescription medications are available but these should be used sparingly.
Can I sleep in my car on a ferry? ›For safety reasons passengers are not permitted to remain in their vehicle when the ferry is at sea. Prior to departure the vehicle deck is secured by our crew and access to the deck is not permitted during the crossing.
Where do dogs wee on a ferry? ›In general, there are dedicated places on the boats for the pets to do their business. If it's not the case, it's on the outside deck. In any case, you will need to pick up his poops and if possible spill a little water on the pee.
What happens if your car breaks down on a ferry? ›If a vehicle is broken down onboard, the responsibility ultimately is with the owner of the vehicle. The ferry crew is under no obligation to re-start vehicles that have broken down.
What can you not take on a ferry? ›- Kilt pins.
- Axes & Hatches.
- Arrows & Darts.
- Crampons (grappling iron, hooked bar of iron, or plate with iron spikes used in mountaineering)
- Harpoons & Spears.
- Ice axes & ice picks.
- Ice skates.
The most important thing about booking an overnight ferry is to consider well in advance what are your sleeping options. The basic ferry ticket is always just for a deck passenger which means that you will get no guaranteed seat or bed in a cabin. Accommodation - Book Now!
Can you use your phone on a ferry? ›You can use your mobile phone while at sea to make calls, send texts and use data.
Do your bags get checked on a ferry? ›Do you check in your luggage on ferries? No, there is no check-in procedure for luggage items. However, we recommend that you don't carry more than 50kg of luggage to avoid delays due to restricted space in the luggage area.
How early do you need to arrive for a ferry? ›You'll need to arrive between an hour and 30 minutes before your scheduled sailing time.
How can I save money on my ferry? ›
Tips For Cheaper Ferry Tickets
Avoid peak times - If you can, avoid booking at times of peak demand, such as during school holidays. Book in advance - Generally, the lowest fares are available when you book in advance. So book as early as possible before your travel date.
Those aged 35 and over feel ferries are a safer mode of transport than planes, trains and coaches. Since last September, the number of consumers saying they would feel safe travelling by ferries, trains, planes and coaches, has increased by an average of 15%.
Is a ferry bigger than a cruise? ›Ferries are small ships designed to transport people and cargo from one destination to the other. Cruise ships are usually much larger than ferries and they usually only transport passengers. Cruise ships are designed with leisure in mind and have many more onboard amenities than ferries.
Do I need a Covid test to go to Newfoundland? ›All travellers are permitted to enter Newfoundland and Labrador. Effective February 28, 2022, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador does not require you to self-isolate or get tested for COVID-19 upon arrival, or complete the Travel Form.
Is Newfoundland expensive? ›Is Newfoundland an expensive place to live? No. In fact, living in Newfoundland is considered affordable in comparison to other provinces in Canada. First and foremost, the cost of housing is lower than the national average.
Is Newfoundland worth seeing? ›Canada is known for its abundance of beautiful places, and Newfoundland certainly lives up to the country's reputation. There are so many beautiful sights within an hour's drive of the capital that it'd be impossible to see them all in one trip.
How many cars can fit in a ferry? ›The car deck on each ferry can accommodate approximately 100 standard sized vehicles.
What is too windy for ferry? ›As a more or less general rule one can say that when wind gusts of around 40 to 45Mph or higher are expected there is already a chance that ferries will divert or are being cancelled.
How long does it take to exit a ferry? ›This will be dependent on several factors such as the volume of passengers on board, the time of year, and the position of your vehicle on board. On average, disembarkation is complete within 30 minutes, but this can take longer.
Do you have to book the ferry to Newfoundland? ›Reservations are recommended for all non-commercial passengers travelling with Marine Atlantic's ferry service. Passengers must be checked-in at least two hours before the vessel's scheduled sailing time. Reservations, including accommodations, will be cancelled if you miss your check-in time.
Can you drive to Newfoundland from the US? ›
Making the journey from the United States will usually involve driving up the East Coast, following the interstate north of Boston and crossing the Canada border at Calais. Over the border, continue north to North Sydney, where you will find the ferry port to Newfoundland.
What country is Newfoundland close to? ›Newfoundland and Labrador is the most easterly province in Canada, situated in the northeastern region of North America. The Strait of Belle Isle separates the province into two geographical parts: Labrador, connected to mainland Canada, and Newfoundland, an island in the Atlantic Ocean.
What language do they speak in Newfoundland? ›Can someone tell me just how bad of a problem the black flies are for tourists during the summer? THANKS! Yes, mosquitoes and black flies inhabit Newfoundland but they are not that bad, or at least I haven't experienced them being very bad except for a short period of time in the spring.
Does Southwest fly to Newfoundland? ›Southwest Airlines is the largest US airline that doesn't serve Canada. The lack of service isn't for a lack of potential customers but is technological is nature.
How long does it take for the ferry to Newfoundland? ›Ferry to Newfoundland
There is year-round service between North Sydney, Nova Scotia and Port aux Basques, in southwestern Newfoundland. Most days have two sailings – morning and evening – and the crossing takes six to eight hours, depending on weather.
The high-speed CAT ferry travels between Bar Harbor, Maine and Yarmouth, Nova Scotia in just 3.5 hours.
Can you drive from the US to Newfoundland? ›Making the journey from the United States will usually involve driving up the East Coast, following the interstate north of Boston and crossing the Canada border at Calais. Over the border, continue north to North Sydney, where you will find the ferry port to Newfoundland.
How long does the cross channel ferry take? ›The quickest and most direct cross-Channel ferry route is Dover to Calais, taking around 1 and a half hours. There are 38 sailings to Calais every day.
What is the longest ferry crossing in the world? ›With an ocean crossing of approximately 1900 metres, the cable ferry between Vancouver Island and Denman Island in British Columbia; is the longest one in the world.
What is the blood alcohol limit in Newfoundland? ›
Alcohol. The prohibited blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) is 80 milligrams or more (mg) of alcohol per 100 millilitres (ml) of blood.
Can you see Northern Lights from Newfoundland? ›The nation's easternmost province of Newfoundland and Labrador is another top place to see the Northern Lights in Canada. While many of the best viewing spots lie along the coast, you'll also find great destinations inland.
How long before my ferry should I arrive? ›You'll need to arrive between an hour and 30 minutes before your scheduled sailing time.
How many people does a cross channel ferry hold? ›This will be dependent on several factors such as the volume of passengers on board, the time of year, and the position of your vehicle on board. On average, disembarkation is complete within 30 minutes, but this can take longer.
Can you stay in your camper on a ferry? ›Can I stay in my motorhome on a ferry? No, for safety reasons you cannot stay in your vehicle in the garage, you must go up to the public areas of the ship. This is mandatory. If you are travelling with a pet, they can stay in your vehicle during the crossing on some ships, and you may be allowed to visit them.
How safe are ferries? ›Generally travelling by ferry is usually considered one of the safest ways to travel. Ferry disasters are very rare, even if the more prominent ones are very memorable. Most ferry accidents are caused by unsuitable weather, overcrowding, and poor vessel maintenance.
Are ferries bigger than the Titanic? ›Despite its popular image of vastness the Titanic was no bigger than a modern North Sea ferry, an expert in marine technology has said.