Is there a train to Thunder Bay?

No, passenger rail service to Thunder Bay was discontinued decades ago.

How long is the ferry?

The crossing from Argentia to North Sydney takes approximately 16 hours.

Do I need a passport?

No, domestic travel within Canada does not require a passport.

There are no tolls on the Trans-Canada Highway, but some bridges may have fees.

What is the best route?

The Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) is the primary and most reliable route.

Thunder Bay

Flight Driving

Port Rexton to Thunder Bay

Updated: 31 May 2026

Traveling from Port Rexton to Thunder Bay requires a multi-modal approach involving a ferry crossing and extensive highway driving. You must first drive to Argentia or Port aux Basques to catch the Marine Atlantic ferry to North Sydney. From Nova Scotia, you will traverse the Trans-Canada Highway through New Brunswick, Quebec, and Ontario. The total distance exceeds 3,200 km, making it a multi-day expedition. Alternatively, flying from Gander International Airport to Thunder Bay International Airport significantly reduces travel time.

Total Distance: Driving distance 3,250 km; straight-line air distance 2,100 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Gander International Airport is the fastest method.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of three or more people.

Compare Port Rexton to Thunder Bay Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Connecting
Duration	12 hours	45 hours
Avg Price	$750 - $1,100	$800 - $1,200 in fuel
Operator	Air Canada	N/A
Route	YQX to YYZ to YQT	Route 230 to TCH 1, Marine Atlantic Ferry, TCH 17
Tip	Check baggage weight limits for regional connecting flights.	Book your ferry reservation at least three weeks in advance.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Always reserve your spot on the Marine Atlantic ferry well ahead of your departure date.
Fuel Stops
Fill up your tank in major towns along the Trans-Canada Highway in Northern Ontario.
Weather Awareness
Check the weather forecast for the Wawa to Thunder Bay stretch, as fog is common.
Rest Breaks
Plan for overnight stops in cities like Quebec City or Sault Ste. Marie.
Emergency Kit
Carry a winter emergency kit in your vehicle regardless of the season.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Watch for moose on the highways in Newfoundland and Northern Ontario, especially at dawn and dusk.
Road Conditions
Monitor highway closures on the Ontario 511 website during winter months.
Driver Fatigue
Switch drivers every four hours to maintain alertness on long stretches.
Cell Service
Expect dead zones in remote areas of Northern Ontario; download offline maps.