Flight
Driving
Petty Harbour to Ottawa
Updated: 31 May 2026
The journey from Petty Harbour to Ottawa spans approximately 2,500 km. You must first travel 20 km to St. John's International Airport (YYT). From there, direct or connecting flights reach Ottawa (YOW) in about 5 hours. Alternatively, driving involves a 6-hour ferry crossing from Argentia to North Sydney. The total driving time exceeds 40 hours across the Trans-Canada Highway.
Total Distance: 2,500 km driving distance; 1,850 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Flight from St. John's (YYT) to Ottawa (YOW) takes approximately 5 hours total travel time.
Cheapest Way
Flight, if booked well in advance, saves significant time and fuel costs compared to driving.
Compare Petty Harbour to Ottawa Routes
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Connecting
|
Connecting
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 hours | 72 hours |
| Avg Price | $400 - $800 | $600 - $1000 |
| Operator | Air Canada | Marine Atlantic |
| Route | YYT to YOW via Montreal or Toronto. | Route 10 to TCH (Route 1) to Argentia Ferry to NS-105. |
| Tip | Book at least 3 weeks in advance to secure lower fares. | Reserve your ferry spot months ahead during peak summer. |
Travel Tips
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Ferry BookingAlways book Marine Atlantic ferries early as they sell out quickly in summer.
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Airport TransitUse a taxi or rideshare from Petty Harbour to YYT as there is no public bus.
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Weather PrepPack layers as Newfoundland weather changes rapidly compared to Ottawa.
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Time ZonesRemember that Newfoundland is 1.5 hours ahead of Ottawa.
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Highway SafetyWatch for moose on the Trans-Canada Highway, especially at dawn and dusk.
Safety Tips
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Moose AwarenessAvoid driving at night in Newfoundland to prevent moose collisions.
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Winter DrivingEnsure your vehicle has winter tires if traveling between November and April.
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Emergency KitCarry a roadside emergency kit including blankets and water.
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Cell CoverageExpect dead zones on the Trans-Canada Highway in remote parts of Newfoundland.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train from NL to Ottawa?No, there is no passenger rail service on the island of Newfoundland.
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How long is the ferry?The Argentia to North Sydney ferry takes approximately 16 hours.
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Can I fly direct?No, all flights from St. John's to Ottawa require a connection.
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What is the best route?The TCH (Route 1) is the primary highway across the province.
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Do I need a passport?No, this is a domestic route within Canada.
Quick Info
- From Petty Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
- To Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
June to September for clear highway conditions and reliable ferry schedules.
Things to Do in Ottawa
1
Petty Harbour Mini Aquarium
Explore local marine life in this catch-and-release facility. It is located right on the wharf.
2
ByWard Market
Visit this historic Ottawa district for local food and artisan crafts. It is a central hub for tourists.
3
Parliament Hill
Tour the seat of Canada's government in Ottawa. Free guided tours are available daily.
4
National Gallery of Canada
View extensive collections of Canadian and Indigenous art. The building itself is an architectural landmark.
Tags
Petty Harbour to Ottawa travel
St. John's to Ottawa flights
driving Newfoundland to Ontario
Marine Atlantic ferry tips
YYT to YOW flights
best way to travel NL to ON
Canada travel guide
Newfoundland travel tips
