How long is the ferry?

The crossing from North Sydney to Port aux Basques is about 7 hours.

No, there is no passenger rail service in Newfoundland.

Do I need a passport?

No, this is a domestic trip within Canada.

What is the best way to travel?

Flying is the most convenient, while the ferry is best for road trippers.

Are there tolls in NL?

No, there are no toll roads in Newfoundland.

Grand Manan

St. John's

Flight Ship

Grand Manan to St. John's

Updated: 27 May 2026

Reaching St. John's from Grand Manan requires a multi-modal approach. First, take the ferry to the mainland, drive to North Sydney, Nova Scotia, and board the Marine Atlantic ferry to Argentia or Port aux Basques. Alternatively, fly from Saint John or Moncton to St. John's International Airport. The journey covers over 1,500 km.

Total Distance: 1,500 km driving + ferry, 1,100 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Moncton or Saint John is the fastest way to reach St. John's.

Cheapest Way

Driving to North Sydney and taking the ferry is cheaper for groups.

Compare Grand Manan to St. John's Routes

	Flight Connecting	Ship Direct
Duration	6 hours	16 hours
Avg Price	$400 - $700	$200 - $400
Operator	Air Canada / WestJet	Marine Atlantic
Route	Saint John (YSJ) or Moncton (YQM) to St. John's (YYT).	North Sydney, NS to Argentia or Port aux Basques, NL.
Tip	Book flights well in advance to secure lower fares.	The ferry crossing is long; consider booking a cabin for overnight comfort.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Marine Atlantic ferries sell out months in advance during the summer.
Time Zone
Remember that Newfoundland is on its own time zone, 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time.
Weather
St. John's weather is unpredictable; pack layers regardless of the season.
Car Rental
If flying, rent a car at the airport to explore the Avalon Peninsula.
Local Food
Try cod tongues and screech, two staples of Newfoundland culture.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the ferry crossing, especially in rough seas.
Driving in NL
Be extremely cautious of moose on the Trans-Canada Highway in Newfoundland.
Emergency Prep
Carry a satellite messenger if you plan to hike in remote areas of the island.
Road Conditions
Check the NL 511 website for real-time road conditions and closures.