Is there a direct flight?

No, you must connect through Montreal or Toronto.

How long is the flight?

The total travel time including the connection is about 6 hours.

Is driving better than flying?

Flying is faster, but driving allows for more flexibility and sightseeing.

What is the best highway?

Highway 20 and Highway 17 are the primary routes.

No, there is no practical passenger rail service for this distance.

Sainte-Luce

Thunder Bay

Flight Driving

Sainte-Luce to Thunder Bay

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Sainte-Luce to Thunder Bay covers approximately 1,600 kilometers. You can drive via Highway 20 and Highway 17, which takes about 18 hours. Alternatively, fly from Mont-Joli (YYY) to Thunder Bay (YQT) with a connection in Montreal or Toronto. This route traverses the St. Lawrence River valley and northern Ontario. It is a popular path for those moving between the Gaspé Peninsula and the city of Thunder Bay.

Total Distance: 1,600 km driving distance, 1,300 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest method, taking approximately 6 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper if traveling with more than one person.

Compare Sainte-Luce to Thunder Bay Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	18 hours
Avg Price	400-700 CAD	250-400 CAD
Operator	Air Canada	Personal Vehicle
Route	Mont-Joli (YYY) to Montreal (YUL) to Thunder Bay (YQT).	Highway 20 to Montreal, then Highway 17 to Thunder Bay.
Tip	Book your tickets in advance to secure the best fare class.	Avoid Montreal during rush hour to save time.

Travel Tips

Flight Booking
Use flight comparison tools to book your connection from Mont-Joli to Thunder Bay.
Traffic
The stretch of Highway 17 through northern Ontario can be busy; plan accordingly.
Parking
Downtown Thunder Bay parking is available in several municipal lots.
Public Transit
Thunder Bay has a reliable bus system that connects the main airport to the downtown core.
Language
Thunder Bay is primarily English-speaking.

Safety Tips

Highway Safety
Highway 17 is a major corridor; maintain a safe following distance.
Winter Weather
Thunder Bay experiences significant snowfall; ensure your vehicle is equipped for harsh winter conditions.
Pedestrian Safety
Be aware of cyclists and pedestrians in the downtown core.
Emergency Services
Dial 911 for any emergency; the city has a robust response network.