In honour of CANADA DAY I plan to post a daily image of Canada and a link to a random Canadian location we have visited.
Taking the ferry to Newfoundland and Labrador - random post.
Taking a ferry to Newfoundland is a legendary voyage, crossing the Cabot Strait from North Sydney, Nova Scotia, to the island of Newfoundland. Operated by Marine Atlantic, it connects the mainland to the province's two main ports: Port aux Basques (a 7-hour crossing) and Argentia (a 16-hour crossing).
Travel to a Unique Time Zone: Newfoundland has its own distinct time zone, which is 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Standard Time. When you sail from Nova Scotia, you technically "lose" half an hour of your day before even stepping foot on the island.Spot the Whales: The waters of the Cabot Strait are teeming with marine life, making the outer decks a prime spot for whale watching. You might even catch glimpses of minke, fin, or humpback whales alongside dolphins and sea birds.
Choose Your Route Wisely: The most popular year-round route is to Port aux Basques (96 nautical miles), which drops you directly on the southwestern tip. However, during the summer months, you can opt for the 280-nautical-mile "cruise" to Argentia, located just a 90-minute drive from the capital city of St. John's.
Sleep Onboard or Camp in Your Car: For the overnight sailings, passengers can book comfortable private cabins. Interestingly, for those traveling with RVs, campervans, or pets, there are specific guidelines that allow some travelers to sleep in their vehicles or reserve specific kennel spots depending on the vessel's policies.
The "Scoop" on Sleeping: If all the cabins are sold out, don't worry—the public seating lounges feature incredibly large, comfortable reclining chairs. Many seasoned travelers bring heavy blankets and sleeping masks to make the trip even cozier.
