How long is the ferry?

The crossing takes between 7 and 16 hours depending on the route.

Is there a direct flight?

No, most flights from NB require a connection.

Do I need a passport?

No, you are traveling within Canada.

Travel to Newfoundland can be costly due to ferry and flight prices.

What is the best way to travel?

Flying is fastest, but the ferry is a classic Newfoundland experience.

St. John's

Flight Ship

Chipman to St. John's

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Chipman to St. John's is a significant trip involving either a flight or a combination of driving and ferry travel. The most practical method is to drive to Moncton or Fredericton, fly to St. John's, or drive to North Sydney, NS, and take the Marine Atlantic ferry to Argentia or Port aux Basques. This is a multi-day journey if driving. It is a unique adventure across the Atlantic provinces.

Total Distance: 1,600 km driving + ferry; 1,300 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Fredericton or Moncton is the fastest way to reach St. John's.

Cheapest Way

Flying is often cheaper than the cost of fuel and ferry fees for a vehicle.

Compare Chipman to St. John's Routes

	Flight Connecting	Ship Direct
Duration	6 hours (with layovers)	16 hours (ferry crossing)
Avg Price	$400-$800	$300-$600 (vehicle + passenger)
Operator	Air Canada / WestJet	Marine Atlantic
Route	Fly from Fredericton (YFC) or Moncton (YQM) to St. John's (YYT).	Drive to North Sydney, NS, then ferry to Argentia or Port aux Basques.
Tip	Book flights well in advance for better pricing.	Reservations are mandatory for the ferry.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Book your Marine Atlantic ferry months in advance, especially for summer travel.
Flight Layovers
Most flights from NB to NL require a layover in Halifax or Montreal.
Weather
Newfoundland weather is unpredictable; pack waterproof gear.
Time Zone
Remember that Newfoundland is in its own time zone, 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time.
Car Rental
If flying, renting a car in St. John's is recommended for exploring the island.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the ferry crossing.
Driving in NL
Be extremely cautious of moose on the Trans-Canada Highway in Newfoundland.
Emergency
Dial 911 for emergencies; cell service can be limited in remote areas.
Vehicle Prep
Ensure your vehicle is in top condition for the long drive to North Sydney.