Gander
Gander
Ship

Little Bras D'or to Gander

Updated: 01 Jun 2026

Reaching Gander from Little Bras d'Or involves a 20 km drive to North Sydney, a ferry crossing to Port aux Basques, and a 700 km drive across Newfoundland on the Trans-Canada Highway. This is a long-distance journey that typically takes 18-20 hours including ferry time. Gander is famous for its aviation history and role in the events of 9/11. Ensure your vehicle is in top condition for this cross-island trek.

Total Distance: 20 km drive + 180 km ferry + 700 km drive; 600 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
The ferry is the only practical way; total travel time is roughly 20 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle and booking a standard ferry seat is the most economical.
Compare Little Bras D'or to Gander Routes
Ship
Direct
Duration
20 hours total
Avg Price
250-450 CAD
Operator
Marine Atlantic
Route
North Sydney to Port aux Basques, then TCH East.

The drive from Port aux Basques to Gander is long; plan for an overnight stop.

Travel Tips
  • Overnight Stop
    Consider staying in Corner Brook or Grand Falls-Windsor to break up the drive.
  • Fuel
    Gas stations are frequent on the TCH, but keep your tank above half.
  • Time Zone
    Newfoundland is 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time.
  • Wildlife
    Moose are a major hazard; strictly avoid driving at night.
  • Connectivity
    Cell service is good on the TCH but spotty in remote areas.
Safety Tips
  • Moose Safety
    The risk of moose collisions is very high; stay off the road after dark.
  • Weather
    Newfoundland weather is unpredictable; check forecasts daily.
  • Emergency
    Carry a well-stocked emergency kit and extra water.
  • Road Safety
    The TCH is a two-lane highway for much of the route; pass with caution.
People Also Ask
  • Is Gander far from the ferry?
    Yes, it is about 700 km from Port aux Basques.
  • Can I fly?
    Yes, you can fly from Sydney (YQY) to Gander (YQX) with connections.
  • Is the ferry reliable?
    Yes, but it can be delayed by high winds.
  • What is Gander known for?
    It is known for its aviation history and hospitality.
  • Do I need a hotel?
    Yes, the drive across the island is too long for one day.
Quick Info
  • From Little Bras D'or, Nova Scotia, Canada
  • To Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

July to August for the best road conditions and daylight hours.

Things to Do in Gander
1
North Atlantic Aviation Museum
Explore the rich aviation history of Gander.
2
Gander International Airport
Visit the historic terminal building.
3
Cobbs Pond Rotary Park
A beautiful park for walking and relaxing.
4
Silent Witness Memorial
A moving tribute to the Arrow Air Flight 1285 tragedy.
Tags
Little Bras d'Or to Gander Newfoundland travel Marine Atlantic ferry driving to Gander Cape Breton to Newfoundland Gander transport Trans-Canada Highway Newfoundland road trip