Is there a train to St. John's?

No, there is no passenger rail service to Newfoundland.

How long is the ferry?

The crossing from North Sydney to Argentia takes approximately 16 hours.

Can I fly directly from Compton?

No, you must travel to Montreal-Trudeau for commercial flights.

What is the best way to see Newfoundland?

Renting a car upon arrival in St. John's is the most flexible method.

Are there tolls on this route?

There are no highway tolls, but the ferry requires a paid ticket.

Compton

St. John's

Flight Ship

Compton to St. John's

Updated: 30 May 2026

Traveling from Compton to St. John's requires a combination of road and air or sea transport. You must first drive 150 km to Montreal-Trudeau Airport. From there, direct flights to St. John's International Airport take roughly 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive to North Sydney, Nova Scotia, and take the Marine Atlantic ferry to Argentia. This journey covers over 2,000 km and involves crossing the Cabot Strait. It is a scenic route that connects the Eastern Townships to the rugged coast of Newfoundland.

Total Distance: Driving distance 2,150 km; straight-line air distance 1,480 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Montreal-Trudeau (YUL) to St. John's (YYT) is the fastest option.

Cheapest Way

Driving to North Sydney and taking the ferry is often cheaper for groups.

Compare Compton to St. John's Routes

	Flight Connecting	Ship Direct
Duration	6 hours	16 hours
Avg Price	$400 - $800	$250 - $500
Operator	Air Canada	Marine Atlantic
Route	YUL to YYT via Toronto or Halifax.	North Sydney, NS to Argentia, NL.
Tip	Book your flight from Montreal-Trudeau to avoid extra ground travel.	Reservations are mandatory for vehicles on the ferry.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Book your Marine Atlantic ferry months in advance during peak summer.
Time Zone
Remember Newfoundland is 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time.
Weather
Pack layers as coastal weather changes rapidly throughout the day.
Airport Access
Use the Metro shuttle to reach Montreal-Trudeau from the Eastern Townships.
Vehicle Prep
Ensure your vehicle is serviced before the long drive to Nova Scotia.

Safety Tips

Moose Awareness
Watch for moose on Newfoundland highways, especially during dawn and dusk.
Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the crossing of the Cabot Strait.
Road Conditions
Check 511 NL for real-time highway updates before driving.
Emergency Kit
Carry a winter emergency kit in your vehicle regardless of the season.