How long is the ferry?

The crossing takes between 6 and 16 hours depending on the route.

Yes, but be cautious of wildlife and weather.

Yes, there are regular flights to St. John's.

What is the best way to get there?

Flying is the most efficient method.

No, but the ferry has a significant cost.

St. John's

Flight Ship

Carlingford to St. John's

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Carlingford to St. John's is a long-distance trip involving either a flight or a combination of driving and a ferry. Flying from Fredericton (YFC) to St. John's (YYT) is the fastest method, taking about 6-8 hours with connections. Alternatively, you can drive to North Sydney, Nova Scotia, take the Marine Atlantic ferry to Argentia or Port aux Basques, and then drive across Newfoundland. This is a multi-day journey that requires careful planning.

Total Distance: 1,800 km driving + ferry distance; 1,300 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest way to reach St. John's.

Cheapest Way

Flying is often cheaper than the cost of fuel, ferry, and time for driving.

Compare Carlingford to St. John's Routes

	Flight Connecting	Ship Direct
Duration	7 hours (including connections)	24+ hours
Avg Price	500-900 CAD	400-700 CAD (vehicle + passengers)
Operator	Air Canada	Marine Atlantic
Route	YFC to YYT.	North Sydney to Port aux Basques/Argentia.
Tip	Book well in advance for better rates.	Reservations are mandatory for the ferry.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Book your ferry crossing months in advance during the summer.
Navigation
Use GPS for navigating the island roads.
Weather
Newfoundland weather is unpredictable; pack for all seasons.
Local Info
Check the Newfoundland tourism website for events.
Driving
Be prepared for long distances between towns on the island.