How long is the ferry?

The crossing takes about 7 hours.

No, there is no direct bus service from Nova Scotia to Gander.

Yes, you can fly from Sydney to Gander with connections.

Yes, the drive through Newfoundland is very scenic.

Reserve Mines

Gander

Driving Ship

Reserve Mines to Gander

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Reserve Mines to Gander involves driving to North Sydney and taking the Marine Atlantic ferry to Port aux Basques, followed by a drive to Gander. The total travel time is approximately 16 to 18 hours, including the ferry crossing. This is a major journey across the island of Newfoundland.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 600 km (plus ferry); straight-line air distance is 450 km.

Fastest Way

Driving and taking the ferry is the fastest, taking about 16 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving and taking the ferry is the most practical way to travel.

Compare Reserve Mines to Gander Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	8 hours (drive in NL)	7 hours (ferry)
Avg Price	$120 - $200 in fuel	$150 - $300
Operator	Personal Vehicle	Marine Atlantic
Route	Trans-Canada Hwy 1 (NL)	North Sydney to Port aux Basques
Tip	The drive from Port aux Basques to Gander is very scenic.	Book your ferry ticket well in advance, especially in summer.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Book your Marine Atlantic ferry ticket as early as possible.
Traffic
Traffic is generally light on this route.
Weather
Newfoundland weather can be unpredictable; pack layers.
Navigation
The Trans-Canada Highway in Newfoundland is well-marked.
Time Zone
Newfoundland is 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Highways can be treacherous in winter; check road conditions before leaving.
Wildlife
Watch for moose on highways in Newfoundland, especially at night.
Fatigue
Take breaks at rest stops along the highway.
Emergency
Keep a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle.