Driving

Bras D'or to Clarenville

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Bras D'or to Clarenville involves a 15 km drive to the North Sydney ferry terminal, a 7-hour ferry crossing to Port aux Basques, and a 700 km drive along the Trans-Canada Highway. This route is the primary way to reach the eastern part of Newfoundland. The total travel time is approximately 15 hours. It is a long but rewarding journey.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 715 km plus ferry; straight-line air distance is 500 km.
Fastest Way
Driving to North Sydney and taking the ferry is the fastest practical route.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle and booking a standard ferry seat is the most cost-effective method.
Compare Bras D'or to Clarenville Routes
Driving
Connecting
Duration
15 hours
Avg Price
300-450 CAD
Operator
Marine Atlantic
Route
Highway 105 to North Sydney, then Route 1 in Newfoundland.

Book your ferry reservation well in advance.

Travel Tips
  • Ferry Booking
    Always book your Marine Atlantic crossing online.
  • Fuel Up
    Fill your tank in Port aux Basques.
  • Time Zone
    Newfoundland is 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time.
  • Pack Snacks
    Bring your own food for the ferry crossing.
  • Check Weather
    Monitor ferry status updates before leaving.
Safety Tips
  • Moose Warning
    Be extremely cautious of moose on the road.
  • Road Conditions
    Check the Newfoundland and Labrador 511 website.
  • Emergency Kit
    Carry a winter emergency kit in your trunk.
  • Cell Service
    Expect dead zones in remote areas.
People Also Ask
  • How long is the ferry?
    The ferry crossing takes approximately 7 hours.
  • Do I need a passport?
    No, you are traveling within Canada.
  • Is the road paved?
    Yes, the Trans-Canada Highway is fully paved.
  • Are there trains?
    No, there is no passenger rail service on the island.
  • Can I take a bus?
    Limited bus service is available across the island.
Quick Info
  • From Bras D'or, Nova Scotia, Canada
  • To Clarenville, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

June to September for reliable ferry and road conditions.

Things to Do in Clarenville
1
White Hills Resort
Enjoy skiing in winter or hiking in summer.
2
Clarenville Waterfront
Walk along the harbor and enjoy the views.
3
Local Trails
Explore the hiking trails in the surrounding area.
4
Terra Nova National Park
Visit this beautiful park located nearby.
Tags
Bras D'or to Clarenville North Sydney ferry to Newfoundland driving to Clarenville Marine Atlantic ferry schedule Newfoundland road trip Clarenville travel guide Nova Scotia to Newfoundland route best way to reach Clarenville Atlantic Canada travel