Newfoundland is a serene island waiting to be discovered in the northwest end of Canada. Despite being roughly the size of the US state of New York, it boasts less than 3% of New York’s population, providing a vast, open landscape with a remarkable geological history formed over millions of years.
How to get there 📍:
So, if you’re daydreaming about Newfoundland, you’ve got a couple of options. You could catch a flight or, if you’re feeling the road trip, drive in through Nova Scotia or Quebec.
Ferry Booking Guide 🚢:
The journey from North Sydney to Channel Port aux Basques is a year around ferry that departs from Nova Scotia. Alternatively you can venture from Blanc-Sablon connecting to St Barbe and there is a seasonal ferry that connects North Sydney to Argentia offering a scenic route closer to the heart of it all the vibrant city of St John’s. Since we were driving from the US, we took the ferry from North Sydney to Channel Port aux Basques to enter Newfoundland.
The video’s got the lowdown, from booking the ferry to cruising with your wheels and what’s happening on board.
Booking the Ferry – No Stress! 💼:
The ferry booking process through Marine Atlantic’s website is straightforward. Enter Passenger, pet info, details about your wheels, and seat details. They offer cabins complete with in room showers for those seeking extra comfort. Alternatively you can opt for the free general seating or go for more cushy selectable seats, ideal for a touch of private space.
Snagging Deals – Keep an Eye Out! 👁️:
Oh, and a quick heads-up – keep those eyes peeled for promos. I’ve seen discounts like 25% off during quieter times. The ferry sets sail twice daily with departures available at noon and at 11:00 p.m. We booked our tickets over 2 months ago. We opted for the noon ferry which gives us a chance to admire the vast expanse of the ocean and the beautiful scenery as well as show you the cabin experience of the ferry
Stormy Surprises ⛈️:
Now, here’s a twist. The day we set sail, Nova Scotia got hit with a monster storm. We got an email regarding the situation and they offered to reschedule for the same night, but we lost the cabin as they were fully booked. And here’s a handy tip, fuel up before you hop aboard. Gas tends to be a bit friendlier to your wallet back in Nova ScotiaLost our cabin too – bummer. P.S. Gas up before you board; it’s a bit friendlier to your wallet back in Nova Scotia.
Boarding & Sailing! 🚢:
The check in is 2 hours before departure. We gave it a shot and asked about available cabins, but they were none available. So with our boarding passes in hand we joined the line in our designated lane We barely waited 10 minutes before letting us board. Looming before us – the MV Blue Puttees With a capacity for over 400 cars and 90 tractor trailers, this maritime giant was our vessel for the journey It was really interesting to watch how the vehicles are directed towards the parking spaces.
Once on board, the lower decks where the cars were neatly tucked in, where off limits once the ferry sets sail. So pack whatever you need with you for the journey. And so began our voyage spanning a distance of 96 nautical miles over the course of roughly 7 hours
On Deck Delights – Levels 7 & 8 🍔🛌:
Level 7 featured a restaurant serving breakfast and lunch, a cafe with various food options, and a small retail store. Level 8 housed cabins and reserved seating. For budget-conscious travelers, bringing snacks is advised.
Morning Views in Newfoundland – Worth It! 🌅:
Woke up to Newfoundland’s beauty, with our car safely parked on the lower deck. We explored the upper deck and took in the views before we left.
The Fare 💸:
In our original booking we had secured a comfortable two bed cabin which was refunded back. As for the total fare, it came to a modest sum of $201.76 CAD.
Stay Tuned! 📽️:
Keep those eyes peeled for our next video – the return ferry journey from St. Barbe to Blanc-Sablon. Subscribe to our youtube channel, drop your questions, and let’s keep the travel vibes rollin’!
Safe travels, pals! 🚗✌️
