Halifax
Halifax
Driving

Bay Bulls to Halifax

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Bay Bulls to Halifax involves a combination of driving and a ferry crossing. First, drive 900 km to Port aux Basques, take the 6-8 hour Marine Atlantic ferry to North Sydney, and then drive 450 km to Halifax. The total travel time is approximately 24-30 hours including the ferry. This is a major cross-provincial route connecting the island to the mainland.

Total Distance: 1350 km total (900 km drive + 180 km ferry + 450 km drive).
Fastest Way
Flying from St. John's (YYT) to Halifax (YHZ) is significantly faster, taking 1.5 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving and taking the ferry is the most practical way to transport your own vehicle.
Compare Bay Bulls to Halifax Routes
Driving
Connecting
Duration
24 hours
Avg Price
$300 - $450 CAD (fuel + ferry)
Operator
Personal Vehicle / Marine Atlantic
Route
Route 1 to Port aux Basques, Ferry to North Sydney, Route 105/104 to Halifax.

Book the overnight ferry to save on hotel costs.

Travel Tips
  • Ferry Booking
    Book your ferry crossing months in advance.
  • Time Zones
    Remember that Newfoundland is 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time.
  • Fueling
    Fill up in North Sydney after the ferry crossing.
  • Weather
    Check the ferry status before leaving Bay Bulls.
  • Packing
    Bring warm clothes for the ferry deck.
Safety Tips
  • Ferry Safety
    Follow all instructions from the crew during the crossing.
  • Road Safety
    Stay alert on the long drive through Nova Scotia.
  • Emergency Kit
    Carry a well-stocked emergency kit.
  • Wildlife
    Watch for deer on Nova Scotia highways.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a flight?
    Yes, direct flights are available from St. John's to Halifax.
  • How long is the ferry?
    The crossing takes about 6 to 8 hours.
  • Can I take a bus?
    No, there is no direct bus service from Newfoundland to Nova Scotia.
  • Is the ferry expensive?
    It depends on the vehicle size and number of passengers.
  • What is the best time to visit?
    Summer is the most pleasant time for travel.
Quick Info
  • From Bay Bulls, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
  • To Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

June to September for the most reliable ferry and road conditions.

Things to Do in Halifax
1
Halifax Waterfront
Walk the boardwalk, visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and enjoy local seafood.
2
Citadel Hill
Explore this historic star-shaped fort that offers panoramic views of the city.
3
Public Gardens
Relax in these Victorian-era gardens, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city.
4
Peggy's Cove
Take a short drive to see the iconic lighthouse and rugged coastal scenery.
Tags
Bay Bulls to Halifax Marine Atlantic ferry driving to Halifax Newfoundland to Nova Scotia Port aux Basques to North Sydney Halifax travel Newfoundland road trip best way to Halifax