How long is the ferry?

The crossing takes between 7 and 16 hours depending on the route.

Yes, it is a multi-day journey from Matane to St. John's.

Yes, you can fly from major airports to St. John's International Airport.

Do I need a passport?

No, it is a domestic trip within Canada.

What is the best route?

Drive to North Sydney and take the Marine Atlantic ferry.

Matane

St. John's

Driving Ship

Matane to St. John's

Updated: 31 May 2026

Reaching St. John's from Matane is an epic Canadian journey. You must drive to North Sydney, Nova Scotia, then take the Marine Atlantic ferry to Argentia or Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. From there, it is a long drive across the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) to the eastern tip of the island. The total distance is over 1,600 km, including the sea crossing. This trip requires significant planning and multiple days of travel.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 1,600 km; straight-line air distance is 1,200 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from a major airport is significantly faster than driving.

Cheapest Way

Driving and using the ferry is the most practical way to transport a vehicle.

Compare Matane to St. John's Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	20 hours	7-16 hours
Avg Price	$300-$400 in fuel	$200-$500
Operator	Personal Vehicle	Marine Atlantic
Route	Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) across Newfoundland.	North Sydney to Port aux Basques or Argentia.
Tip	The drive from Port aux Basques to St. John's takes about 10 hours.	Book your ferry months in advance for summer travel.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Marine Atlantic ferries sell out quickly; book as soon as dates are set.
Road Conditions
Route 1 is generally well-maintained but watch for moose at night.
Time Zone
Newfoundland is in its own unique time zone, 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic time.
Weather
Expect fog and wind; pack layers regardless of the season.
Supplies
Stock up on snacks and water before leaving major towns.

Safety Tips

Moose Safety
Avoid driving at night; moose are extremely common on Newfoundland roads.
Emergency
Carry a satellite messenger if traveling in very remote areas.
Ferry Safety
Secure all loose items in your vehicle before boarding the ferry.
Communication
Cell service is spotty in the interior of Newfoundland.