How long is the ferry to Newfoundland?

The crossing from North Sydney to Port aux Basques takes approximately 6 to 8 hours.

Do I need a passport?

No, you are traveling within Canada and only need government-issued photo ID.

Yes, the entire Trans-Canada Highway across Newfoundland is fully paved.

Are there trains to Gander?

No, there is no passenger rail service on the island of Newfoundland.

DRL Coachlines previously operated, but currently, there is no reliable island-wide bus service.

Gander

Flight Driving

Digdeguash to Gander

Updated: 27 May 2026

The journey from Digdeguash to Gander spans approximately 1,350 km, requiring a combination of driving and a ferry crossing. You will travel east on Route 1 and Route 2 to reach the Marine Atlantic ferry terminal in North Sydney, Nova Scotia. The ferry crosses the Cabot Strait to Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. From there, you follow the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) across the island to Gander. This route is a major logistical undertaking involving significant maritime transit.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 1,350 km; straight-line air distance is 820 km.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest, taking 8 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups, costing roughly 450 CAD including fuel and ferry fees.

Compare Digdeguash to Gander Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Connecting
Duration	8 hours	22 hours
Avg Price	700-1200 CAD	450-600 CAD
Operator	Air Canada	Marine Atlantic
Route	Saint John Airport (YSJ) to Gander International Airport (YQX) via Halifax or Montreal.	Route 1 to Route 2, then TCH 105 to North Sydney, ferry to Port aux Basques, TCH 1 to Gander.
Tip	Flights are significantly faster but require a connection in a major hub like Halifax.	Book your ferry reservation at least three months in advance during peak summer months.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Always book your Marine Atlantic ferry slot online to guarantee your vehicle space.
Fuel Stops
Fill your tank in Port aux Basques before heading across the island, as stretches of the TCH are remote.
Time Zone
Remember that Newfoundland is 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time.
Weather Check
Check the Marine Atlantic website for ferry cancellations due to high winds in the Cabot Strait.
Road Conditions
Use the NL 511 website to monitor road construction and weather alerts on the Trans-Canada Highway.

Safety Tips

Moose Awareness
Avoid driving at dawn or dusk on the Trans-Canada Highway in Newfoundland due to high moose activity.
Emergency Kit
Carry a winter emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets and non-perishable food, even in summer.
Cell Coverage
Expect limited cell service in the interior of Newfoundland; download offline maps.
Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure before boarding the ferry, as the crossing can be rough.