Driving
Ship
Pelee Island to Richmond Hill
Updated: 27 May 2026
Your journey begins with the Pelee Islander II or Jiimaan ferry from Pelee Island to Leamington. Upon docking, you will drive north via Highway 77 to connect with Highway 401 East. Continue through the Greater Toronto Area, transitioning to Highway 404 North to reach Richmond Hill. The total distance covers approximately 400 kilometers. This route requires careful synchronization with the seasonal ferry schedule.
Total Distance: 400 km driving, 320 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Ferry plus driving, taking 5 hours 30 minutes total including wait times.
Cheapest Way
Ferry plus personal vehicle, costing roughly 120 CAD total.
Compare Pelee Island to Richmond Hill Routes
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Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4 hours | 1 hour 30 mins |
| Avg Price | 80-120 CAD | 20-40 CAD |
| Operator | Personal Vehicle | Ontario Ferries |
| Route | Highway 401 E to Highway 404 N | Pelee Island to Leamington Dock |
| Tip | Avoid the 401 through Toronto between 3 PM and 7 PM to save time. | Book your vehicle reservation online at least two weeks in advance. |
Travel Tips
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Ferry BookingAlways check the Ontario Ferries website for daily service updates.
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Traffic PlanningUse Waze or Google Maps to monitor Highway 401 congestion.
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Fuel UpFill your tank in Leamington before starting the long drive to the GTA.
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PackingBring layers as the ferry deck can be windy even in summer.
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Rest StopsUse the ONroute service centers along Highway 401 for food and fuel.
Safety Tips
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Ferry SafetyFollow all crew instructions during boarding and disembarking.
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Highway VigilanceStay alert for heavy transport trucks on the 401 corridor.
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Weather AwarenessCheck for fog warnings on Lake Erie before ferry departure.
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Emergency KitKeep a basic roadside emergency kit in your trunk.
People Also Ask
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Is the ferry open all year?No, ferry service is seasonal and depends on ice conditions.
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How long is the ferry ride?The crossing typically takes 90 minutes.
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Can I take a bus from Leamington?Yes, regional bus services connect Leamington to Windsor and beyond.
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Is there parking at the dock?Yes, paid parking is available at the Leamington ferry terminal.
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What is the best route to Richmond Hill?Highway 401 East to Highway 404 North is the most direct path.
Quick Info
- From Pelee Island, Ontario, Canada
- To Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
May to September for reliable ferry operations and clear road conditions.
Things to Do in Richmond Hill
1
Pelee Island Winery
Visit the southernmost winery in Canada. Enjoy a tasting flight of their signature Vidal ice wine.
2
Fish Point Provincial Nature Reserve
Explore the unique sand spit ecosystem. It is a critical stopover for migratory birds.
3
Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory
Tour the historic telescope site. It offers public viewing nights during summer months.
4
Lake Wilcox Park
Relax by the waterfront in Richmond Hill. The park features a splash pad and scenic boardwalks.
Tags
Pelee Island ferry schedule
driving Pelee Island to Richmond Hill
Ontario travel guide
ferry to Leamington
Highway 401 route
Richmond Hill transport
Pelee Island tourism
GTA travel tips
