No, the East Coast Ferries service charges a fee per vehicle.

How long is the drive?

The drive from L'Etete to Saint John is approximately 90 minutes.

There is no public bus service from Deer Island to Saint John.

Yes, pets are allowed on the ferry but must remain in the vehicle.

Yes, the drive along Highway 1 offers beautiful views of the Bay of Fundy.

Fairhaven

Saint John

Driving Ship

Fairhaven to Saint John

Updated: 27 May 2026

The journey from Fairhaven on Deer Island to Saint John requires a combination of ferry and highway travel. You must first take the East Coast Ferries vessel from Deer Island to L'Etete. From L'Etete, you drive along Route 172 to join Highway 1 East. The total distance is approximately 115 kilometers. This route offers stunning views of the Bay of Fundy coastline. Expect a travel time of roughly 3 hours depending on ferry synchronization.

Total Distance: Driving distance 115 km, straight-line air distance 65 km.

Fastest Way

Driving from L'Etete to Saint John via Highway 1 takes 90 minutes, excluding ferry wait times.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method, costing roughly $25 including ferry fees.

Compare Fairhaven to Saint John Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	2 hours 30 minutes	20 minutes
Avg Price	$15 - $25	$10 - $20
Operator	Personal Vehicle	East Coast Ferries
Route	Route 172 to Highway 1 East	Deer Island to L'Etete
Tip	Ensure your fuel tank is full before leaving Deer Island as gas stations are limited.	Check the ferry schedule online as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Travel Tips

Ferry Timing
Arrive at the ferry terminal 30 minutes early during peak summer weekends.
Tide Awareness
Check tide charts before visiting the Reversing Falls to see the water at its most dramatic.
Road Conditions
Route 172 can be winding; drive cautiously during foggy conditions.
Connectivity
Cell service is spotty on Deer Island; download offline maps before departing.
Local Currency
Keep small change for the ferry if you are not using a pre-paid pass.

Safety Tips

Fog Safety
Coastal fog can reduce visibility to near zero; use low-beam headlights.
Wildlife
Watch for deer crossing the roads on Deer Island, especially at dawn and dusk.
Ferry Safety
Remain in your vehicle or follow crew instructions strictly while on the ferry deck.
Emergency Prep
Carry a basic roadside emergency kit as services are sparse between L'Etete and Saint John.