How long is the ferry?

The crossing to Argentia takes about 16 hours.

No, there is no direct bus service from Nova Scotia to St. John's.

Yes, you can fly from Sydney to St. John's with connections.

Yes, the drive through Newfoundland is very scenic.

Reserve Mines

St. John's

Driving Ship

Reserve Mines to St. John's

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Reserve Mines to St. John's involves driving to North Sydney and taking the Marine Atlantic ferry to Argentia or Port aux Basques, followed by a drive to St. John's. The total travel time is approximately 18 to 24 hours, including the ferry crossing. This is a major journey across the island of Newfoundland.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 900 km (plus ferry); straight-line air distance is 600 km.

Fastest Way

Driving and taking the ferry to Argentia is the fastest, taking about 18 hours total.

Cheapest Way

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

Compare Reserve Mines to St. John's Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	2 hours (drive from Argentia)	16 hours (ferry to Argentia)
Avg Price	$150 - $250 in fuel	$200 - $400
Operator	Personal Vehicle	Marine Atlantic
Route	Trans-Canada Hwy 1 (NL)	North Sydney to Argentia
Tip	The drive from Argentia to St. John's is straightforward.	The Argentia ferry is closer to St. John's than the Port aux Basques ferry.

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.