Is there a train to PEI?

No, passenger rail service to Prince Edward Island was discontinued decades ago.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 17 to 19 hours of actual road time.

Do I need a passport?

No, this is a domestic trip within Canada; government-issued ID is sufficient.

Yes, the Northumberland Ferries operate between Caribou, NS, and Wood Islands, PEI.

What is the best route?

The Trans-Canada Highway is the most direct and well-maintained route.

Gananoque

Charlottetown

Flight Driving

Gananoque to Charlottetown

Updated: 26 May 2026

The journey from Gananoque to Charlottetown spans approximately 1,650 km across Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick. Most travelers drive via Highway 401 East, connecting to Autoroute 20 in Quebec and the Trans-Canada Highway 2 in New Brunswick. Crossing the Confederation Bridge is the final, iconic leg of the trip into Prince Edward Island. Alternatively, you can fly from Kingston or Ottawa to Charlottetown Airport (YYG). This route traverses the heart of the St. Lawrence River valley before reaching the Atlantic coast.

Total Distance: 1,650 km driving; 1,200 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Ottawa (YOW) is the fastest, taking roughly 5 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical for groups of two or more people.

Compare Gananoque to Charlottetown Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	17 hours
Avg Price	$400-$800	$300-$500 in fuel
Operator	Air Canada	Personal Vehicle
Route	Kingston (YGK) or Ottawa (YOW) to Charlottetown (YYG).	Highway 401 E to A-20 E to Trans-Canada Hwy 2 E.
Tip	Book flights well in advance to secure lower fares.	Budget for the Confederation Bridge toll when entering PEI.

Travel Tips

Bridge Toll
The toll for the Confederation Bridge is only charged when leaving the island, not entering.
Time Zone
Remember that PEI is in the Atlantic Time Zone, one hour ahead of Ontario.
Fuel Stops
Fill up in New Brunswick before crossing the bridge, as gas prices can be higher on the island.
Booking
Book your accommodations in Charlottetown months ahead if traveling during the summer festival season.
Route Planning
Use the Trans-Canada Highway for the most reliable road conditions throughout the Maritimes.

Safety Tips

Weather
Check for high wind warnings on the Confederation Bridge, as they may restrict high-profile vehicles.
Fatigue
The drive is long; plan for overnight stops in Quebec City or Moncton to avoid driver fatigue.
Wildlife
Be cautious of moose on the roads in New Brunswick, especially during dawn and dusk.
Road Conditions
Monitor 511 services for each province to stay updated on construction or weather-related closures.