Driving
Ship
York to Gander
Updated: 31 May 2026
The trip from York, PEI to Gander, NL is a long-distance journey. Drive 4 hours to North Sydney, NS, take the 7-hour ferry to Port aux Basques, NL, and then drive 6 hours across the Trans-Canada Highway to Gander. This route spans the entire width of the island of Newfoundland.
Total Distance: Driving distance 450 km + 180 km ferry + 550 km, total travel time 20+ hours.
Fastest Way
Driving to North Sydney and taking the ferry is the standard route.
Cheapest Way
Driving and taking the ferry is the most practical way to transport a vehicle.
Compare York to Gander Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 10 hours total driving | 7 hours |
| Avg Price | $250 - $350 fuel | $200 - $400 |
| Operator | Personal Vehicle | Marine Atlantic |
| Route | TCH 104 to North Sydney, then TCH 1 across Newfoundland. | North Sydney, NS to Port aux Basques, NL. |
| Tip | The drive across Newfoundland is long; plan for overnight stops. | Book early; this is a popular route for tourists. |
Travel Tips
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Ferry BookingAlways book your ferry crossing well in advance.
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Time ZoneNewfoundland is 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time.
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DrivingThe TCH across Newfoundland is long; plan for multiple rest stops.
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WildlifeMoose are a major hazard; avoid driving at night at all costs.
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SuppliesKeep a cooler with food and water for the long drive across the island.
Safety Tips
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MooseBe extremely vigilant for moose on the highway, especially at dusk.
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WeatherCheck the Marine Atlantic website for ferry delays due to high winds.
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EmergencyCarry a physical map as cell service is not available everywhere.
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VehicleEnsure your vehicle is serviced before starting this long journey.
People Also Ask
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How long is the drive?The total driving time is about 10 hours plus the ferry.
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Is Gander a big city?It is a medium-sized town with significant historical importance.
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Can I fly?Yes, you can fly from Charlottetown to Gander with connections.
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Is the ferry reliable?Yes, but it can be affected by severe weather.
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What is the best time to visit?Summer offers the best weather for exploring.
Quick Info
- From York, Prince Edward Island, Canada
- To Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
July to August for the best weather and road conditions.
Things to Do in Gander
1
North Atlantic Aviation Museum
Discover Gander's unique role in aviation history and the 'Come From Away' story.
2
Gander Lake
A massive, deep lake perfect for boating and scenic photography.
3
Cobbs Pond Rotary Park
A beautiful park with walking trails and a boardwalk around the pond.
4
Silent Witness Memorial
A moving tribute to the victims of the Arrow Air Flight 1285 crash.
Tags
York PEI to Gander NL
PEI to Gander travel
Marine Atlantic ferry
driving across Newfoundland
Gander travel guide
North Sydney to Gander
Atlantic Canada road trip
PEI to NL route
