The primary ferry service connecting Prince Edward Island (PEI) to mainland Canada is operated by Northumberland Ferries Limited. This service runs between Caribou, Nova Scotia, and Wood Islands, PEI. The crossing takes approximately 75 minutes and operates seasonally, typically from May through late December. It is a popular alternative to the Confederation Bridge, which connects PEI to New Brunswick. The ferry offers a more scenic and relaxing journey, featuring onboard amenities such as cafeterias, gift shops, and outdoor viewing decks where passengers can watch for seals and seabirds. One unique aspect of PEI travel is the payment system: you do not pay when entering the island via the ferry or the bridge; instead, you pay a "departure fee" when leaving. If you arrive by ferry and leave by the bridge (or vice versa), the pricing is adjusted accordingly. During the peak summer months of July and August, reservations are highly recommended as the ferry can fill up quickly with tourists and commercial traffic. The ferry remains a vital link for the maritime provinces, supporting both tourism and the local agricultural economy.