Gatineau
Gatineau
Driving

Gatineau to Charlottetown

Updated: 31 May 2026

To reach Charlottetown, Newfoundland, from Gatineau, you must drive to North Sydney, Nova Scotia, and take the Marine Atlantic ferry to Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. From there, it is a long drive across the island on the Trans-Canada Highway to reach Charlottetown, which is located near the entrance to Terra Nova National Park. This route is ideal for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the island.

Total Distance: 2,250 km driving distance; 1,650 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying to Gander and renting a car for the 1-hour drive to Charlottetown, NL.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective way to reach Charlottetown, NL.
Compare Gatineau to Charlottetown Routes
Driving
Connecting
Duration
30 hours
Avg Price
$650 - $950 CAD
Operator
Marine Atlantic
Route
Trans-Canada Highway

The drive across Newfoundland is long; plan for overnight stops.

Travel Tips
  • Ferry Booking
    Book your ferry tickets well in advance to ensure availability.
  • Road Conditions
    Check the Newfoundland and Labrador 511 website for road updates before you start your drive.
  • Fuel
    Keep your gas tank full, as gas stations can be far apart on the Trans-Canada Highway.
  • Accommodation
    Book your accommodations in advance, especially during the summer tourist season.
  • Packing
    Pack for all types of weather, as Newfoundland weather is unpredictable.
Safety Tips
  • Moose Safety
    Be extremely careful when driving at night, as moose are common on the roads.
  • Emergency Kit
    Carry a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle at all times.
  • Communication
    Ensure you have a reliable way to communicate, as cell service can be spotty in remote areas.
  • Driving Fatigue
    Take regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue on the long drive across the island.
People Also Ask
  • How far is Charlottetown, NL from Gander?
    Charlottetown, NL is approximately 1 hour away from Gander by car.
  • Is there a train to Charlottetown, NL?
    No, there is no passenger rail service to Charlottetown, NL.
  • What is the best way to get to Charlottetown, NL?
    The best way is to fly to Gander and rent a car.
  • Are there hotels in Charlottetown, NL?
    Yes, there are several inns and bed-and-breakfast options available in the town.
  • Is Charlottetown, NL a good place to visit?
    Yes, it is a beautiful town with easy access to Terra Nova National Park.
Quick Info
  • From Gatineau, Quebec, Canada
  • To Charlottetown, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

June to September for the best weather and outdoor activities.

Things to Do in Charlottetown
1
Terra Nova National Park
Explore the park's hiking trails, kayaking opportunities, and beautiful scenery. It is a must-visit for nature lovers.
2
Local History
Learn about the history of the town and its early settlers. It is a great place to understand the local culture.
3
Hiking
Explore the various hiking trails in and around Charlottetown, which offer beautiful views of the landscape.
4
Fishing
Go fishing in the local waters, which are known for their abundance of fish.
Tags
Gatineau to Charlottetown NL Charlottetown Newfoundland travel Marine Atlantic ferry driving to Charlottetown NL Terra Nova National Park Newfoundland road trip ferry to Port aux Basques Gatineau to NL