Is the ferry expensive?

The ferry is very affordable, costing less than 3 CAD per trip.

How do I get to Dartmouth from Halifax?

You can take the ferry, the bus, or drive across the bridge.

Is there a train to Dartmouth?

No, there is no passenger rail service to Dartmouth.

Where does the bus drop off?

Maritime Bus drops off at the Halifax Shopping Centre or the VIA Rail station.

Are there hotels in Dartmouth?

Yes, there are several hotels near the Dartmouth Crossing area.

Belliveaus Cove

Dartmouth

Bus Driving

Belliveaus Cove to Dartmouth

Updated: 01 Jun 2026

Traveling from Belliveaus Cove to Dartmouth involves a 270-kilometer trip, primarily via Highway 101 and the A. Murray MacKay Bridge. While driving takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes, you can also utilize Maritime Bus from Digby to reach the Halifax area. Dartmouth, known as the City of Lakes, is easily accessible once you cross the harbour from Halifax. This route connects the rural Acadian Shore to the urban core of the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Total Distance: 270 km driving distance; 198 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving your own car is the fastest method, taking 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper if traveling with more than one person.

Compare Belliveaus Cove to Dartmouth Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	3 hours 15 mins
Avg Price	60-80 CAD	45-55 CAD
Operator	Maritime Bus	Personal Vehicle
Route	Bus from Digby to Halifax, then local transit to Dartmouth.	Highway 101 East to Highway 102, crossing the MacKay Bridge.
Tip	Book tickets online in advance to secure a seat on the Digby-Halifax route.	Use the MacKay Bridge to avoid downtown Halifax congestion.

Travel Tips

Bridge Tolls
Ensure you have a MacPass or exact change for the bridge toll.
Ferry Access
The ferry is the most efficient way to get from downtown Dartmouth to downtown Halifax.
Bus Transfers
If taking the bus, check the Halifax Transit schedule for connections to Dartmouth.
Parking
Parking in downtown Dartmouth is easier than in downtown Halifax.
Local Apps
Download the Transit app for real-time bus and ferry updates.

Safety Tips

Bridge Traffic
Be prepared for sudden stops on the MacKay Bridge during rush hour.
Pedestrian Safety
Dartmouth has many active crosswalks; always yield to pedestrians.
Weather
High winds can occasionally affect ferry operations; check the website for alerts.
Night Driving
Highway 101 is dark; ensure your headlights are clean and functional.