How long is the ferry ride from Nova Scotia to PEI?

Two provinces separated by the sea. This 75-minute ferry trip runs across the Northumberland Strait between Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island and Caribou, Nova Scotia, just outside of historic Pictou.



The ferry ride across the Northumberland Strait between Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island takes approximately 75 minutes (1 hour and 15 minutes). This service is operated by Northumberland Ferries and runs between the terminals in Caribou, Nova Scotia, and Wood Islands, PEI. The crossing is seasonal, typically operating from May through late December. The ferry is a popular alternative to the Confederation Bridge because it allows travelers to get out of their cars, enjoy the sea breeze, and utilize onboard amenities like the cafeteria and gift shop. One unique aspect of this route is the payment structure: in 2026, you generally only pay the ferry fare when leaving Prince Edward Island. Entering the island from Nova Scotia via the ferry is effectively "free" at the point of entry, though you will be charged for the round-trip or return leg when you depart the island, whether you leave by ferry or via the bridge at Borden-Carleton.

People Also Ask

When is the best time to visit PEI? As the temperatures start dropping in October, most stores, seasonal restaurants, and tour providers shut their doors. Overall, the best time to explore this gorgeous destination is between June and September.

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It's a great place to visit. Besides the vistas, there's plenty to explore on foot, bike, or car. PEI is easy to reach by plane and by driving (from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick) and is worth at least a short visit.

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Three days is sufficient for PEI. I'm assuming you want to visit & spend time in Nova Scotia, New Brusnwick & Quebec before heading into Ontario and on to Toronto? You're likely going to need at least 5 days in Nova Scotia, and 5 - 6 days in Quebec - depending on what you plan to do and where to go.

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Ferry service that links PEI and Nova Scotia. Transports vehicles and walk-on passengers. Ferry crossings are 75 minutes and there are amenities on board. Fares are only charged when departing PEI; no fare when leaving Nova Scotia.

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Should I buy ferry tickets in advance? Yes, we recommend that you book your ferry tickets in advance.

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The Nova Scotia government is permanently removing fees from all seven of the ferry services operating within the province. Premier Iain Rankin announced the change today at the Englishtown ferry, where a boat transports people across St. Anns Bay between Englishtown and Jersey Cove in northern Cape Breton.

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Fare: $2.75 one way. Ask for a free transfer for a return trip. Experience 360-degree views of the Halifax Harbour on the harbour ferry. At just $2.75, the 15-minute journey between the Halifax waterfront and Dartmouth is the most affordable harbour cruise around.

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Fees to enter the Prince Edward Island National Park at Cavendish-North Rustico vary depending on if you're just staying for the day or if you're camping. If you are just going to the beach for the day it costs $8.50 for an adult, $16.75 for a family. Children under the age of 17 are free.

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In my opinion, one of the nicest beaches in PEI is Basin Head. It is a little less than an hour from Tracadie and there is no fee. No, no beach other then the National Park has fees to access the beach.

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What is Prince Edward Island Known For? The province is best loved for Green Gables, golf, and gorgeous sandy beaches. Moreover, PEI is a great culinary destination offering world-class seafood. After a day spent adventuring on the island, enjoy a freshly caught lobster, steamed mussels or champagne-poached oysters.

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PEI is known for hearty, family-style lobster meals, where you can dig into local crustaceans paired with chowder, mussels, salads, pies and more. Eateries like New Glasgow Lobster Suppers and Fisherman's Wharf Lobster Supper have been dishing out these classics for decades.

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