Flight
Ship
Gananoque to St. John's
Updated: 26 May 2026
Reaching St. John's from Gananoque is a significant journey involving a mix of highway driving and a ferry crossing. You must drive to North Sydney, Nova Scotia, to catch the Marine Atlantic ferry to Argentia or Port aux Basques. Alternatively, flying from Ottawa or Toronto to St. John's International Airport (YYT) is the most practical option. The total distance exceeds 2,700 km, making it one of the longest domestic travel routes in Canada.
Total Distance: 2,700 km driving; 2,100 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying from Ottawa or Toronto is the fastest, taking about 6 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving to North Sydney and taking the ferry is cheaper for families with a vehicle.
Compare Gananoque to St. John's Routes
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Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 hours | 7-16 hours (ferry) |
| Avg Price | $500-$900 | $200-$400 (ferry only) |
| Operator | Air Canada | Marine Atlantic |
| Route | Ottawa (YOW) or Toronto (YYZ) to St. John's (YYT). | North Sydney, NS to Port aux Basques or Argentia, NL. |
| Tip | Flights are the only realistic way to reach the island in a single day. | Reservations are mandatory for the ferry, especially in summer. |
Travel Tips
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Ferry BookingBook your Marine Atlantic ferry crossing months in advance to ensure space for your vehicle.
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Time ZoneNewfoundland is in its own time zone, 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time.
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PackingBring layers, as the weather in St. John's can change rapidly regardless of the season.
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DrivingThe drive across Newfoundland from Port aux Basques to St. John's takes about 9 hours on the Trans-Canada Highway.
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ConnectivityDownload offline maps, as cell service can be spotty in remote parts of Newfoundland.
Safety Tips
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MooseBe extremely vigilant for moose on the Trans-Canada Highway in Newfoundland, especially at night.
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Ferry DelaysBe prepared for potential ferry delays due to high winds or rough seas in the Cabot Strait.
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Road ConditionsCheck the Newfoundland and Labrador 511 website for real-time road updates.
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EmergencyKeep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets and non-perishable food, for long drives.
People Also Ask
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How long is the ferry?The ferry to Port aux Basques takes about 7 hours; the ferry to Argentia takes about 16 hours.
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Can I fly direct?Direct flights are available from Toronto (YYZ) to St. John's (YYT).
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Is it expensive?Travel to Newfoundland is generally more expensive due to the ferry costs and distance.
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Do I need a car?A car is highly recommended to explore the island outside of St. John's.
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What is the best ferry port?Port aux Basques is the most frequent and reliable ferry route.
Quick Info
- From Gananoque, Ontario, Canada
- To St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
June to August for the best weather and ferry reliability.
Things to Do in St. John's
1
Signal Hill
Visit the site of the first transatlantic wireless signal. It offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and St. John's harbor.
2
Cape Spear
Stand at the most easterly point in North America. It features a historic lighthouse and dramatic coastal cliffs.
3
George Street
Experience the famous nightlife of St. John's. It has the highest concentration of bars and pubs per capita in Canada.
4
The Rooms
Explore the provincial museum and art gallery. It provides deep insight into Newfoundland's unique history and culture.
Tags
Gananoque to St. John's
travel to Newfoundland
Marine Atlantic ferry
flights to St. John's
driving to Newfoundland
Canada east coast travel
St. John's travel guide
Ontario to Newfoundland
