St. John's
St. John's
Flight Ship

Kingston to St. John's

Updated: 01 Jun 2026

The journey from Kingston, Nova Scotia to St. John's, Newfoundland involves crossing the Cabot Strait. You can fly from Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) to St. John's International Airport (YYT) in about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive to North Sydney, NS, take the Marine Atlantic ferry to Argentia or Port aux Basques, and then drive across Newfoundland. St. John's is the oldest city in North America and offers a unique cultural experience.

Total Distance: 1,200 km driving distance (including ferry); 900 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying from Halifax Stanfield (YHZ) is the fastest way to reach St. John's.
Cheapest Way
Flying is often cheaper than the cost of fuel and ferry tickets for a vehicle.
Compare Kingston to St. John's Routes
Flight
Direct
Ship
Direct
Duration 1 hour 30 mins 16 hours (ferry only)
Avg Price 250-500 CAD 300-500 CAD
Operator Air Canada Marine Atlantic
Route YHZ to YYT. North Sydney, NS to Argentia or Port aux Basques, NL.
Tip Book early for the best rates on this popular route. Reservations are mandatory for the ferry; book months in advance.
Travel Tips
  • Weather
    Newfoundland weather is famously unpredictable; pack layers and rain gear.
  • Ferry Booking
    If taking the ferry, book your spot well in advance.
  • Driving
    The drive across Newfoundland is long; plan for multiple stops.
  • Tipping
    Standard tipping in restaurants is 15-18 percent.
  • Local Culture
    Be prepared for the friendly and unique Newfoundland hospitality.
Safety Tips
  • Wildlife
    Moose are very common on Newfoundland roads; drive with extreme caution at night.
  • Emergency
    Dial 911 for any emergency assistance.
  • Coastal Safety
    Stay away from cliff edges; the terrain can be unstable.
  • Ferry Safety
    Follow all instructions from the Marine Atlantic crew during the crossing.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train to St. John's?
    No, there is no passenger train service in Newfoundland.
  • How long is the flight?
    The flight time is approximately 1.5 hours.
  • Do I need a passport?
    No, this is a domestic flight within Canada.
  • Is the ferry expensive?
    Yes, it can be costly, especially with a vehicle.
  • What is the best airport?
    St. John's International Airport (YYT) is the main hub.
Quick Info
  • From Kingston, Nova Scotia, Canada
  • To St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

July to September for the best weather and whale watching.

Things to Do in St. John's
1
Signal Hill
Visit the historic site for panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. It is a must-see.
2
Quidi Vidi Village
Explore this charming fishing village with its famous brewery and scenic harbor. It is a local favorite.
3
The Rooms
Discover the history and culture of Newfoundland at this museum and art gallery. The views are incredible.
4
Cape Spear
Visit the easternmost point in North America. It is a stunning coastal location.
Tags
Kingston to St. John's Halifax to St. John's flight driving to St. John's from NS Marine Atlantic ferry St. John's travel guide Air Canada St. John's Newfoundland travel St. John's tips