10 Reasons to travel by ferry in 2023

From sea views to saved time, Bay Ferries and Northumberland Ferries offers great fun for all

Are you looking for a unique and memorable way to explore the stunning coastlines and charming villages throughout Atlantic Canada and Maine? Choose your next ferry crossing and take the “sea-nic” route to your destination with Bay Ferries and Northumberland Ferries.

1. Take a Break from Driving

Say so long to the worries of the road, and let us handle the driving while you take a break! A ferry ride is a perfect opportunity to relax and recharge before getting back on the road, allowing you to spend more time with your family. In addition to the incomparable views, taking the ferry gives you a chance to get out and stretch your legs while enjoying this one-of-a-kind experience that’ll have you forgetting about “are we there yet!?”

2. Get There Faster

Not only will you experience views and ocean breezes on the ferry that you can’t duplicate on the highway, but you’ll also arrive at your destination faster. Whether you take a ferry voyage across the Bay of Fundy between Digby, Nova Scotia, and Saint John, New Brunswick, in less than half the time it takes to travel by car, or you hop aboard The CAT for a high-speed journey between Bar Harbor, Maine, and Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, an unforgettable journey paired with more time to take in the sights at your destination is the perfect combination for your next adventure.

3. Soak in Stunning Sea Views

Discover the Atlantic Coast from a different perspective, with views you can’t get from a car window. From the red sandstone cliffs of Prince Edward Island and the never-ending coastline of Nova Scotia to the picturesque waterways of Maine, there’s no shortage of breathtaking scenery to discover.

4. Fun for the Whole Family

Aboard the ferry, you can spend time watching for seals, birds, and even porpoises from our viewing decks. There’s simply no comparison between a trip in the car and a relaxing ferry voyage with Bay Ferries and Northumberland Ferries. We have introduced a brand new way for your family to enjoy the ferry, learn more about the Maritimes, and have a chance to win a prize with our Sailor’s Scavenger Hunt

Watch for marine wildlife, enjoy local live music and take in the scenery on board our ferries.

Photo: Aaron McKenzie Fraser www.amfraser.com

5. Listen to Local Live Music

Picture yourself on the water with your family, enjoying a bite to eat while a local artist serenades you with songs from the Maritimes. Enjoy our music programs that feature a variety of artists showcasing their talents during select crossings throughout the summer. We guarantee you will have a toe-tapping good time.

Photo: Riley Smith

6. Bring Home a Piece of the Maritimes

Our onboard gift shops have you covered for authentic souvenirs with a selection of locally made crafts, accessories, and music. Be sure to stop by to find that perfect memento to remember your East Coast vacation.

Picture yourself on the water with your family, enjoying a bite to eat while a local artist serenades you with songs from the Maritimes

7. Fuel Up on Food & Drink

Our ferries offer a variety of onboard dining options for every craving so you can fuel up before the next leg of your journey. On your next voyage, enjoy tried-and-true favourites like the popular Islander Breakfast available on our PEI – Nova Scotia route, Digby scallops on the Bay of Fundy route, in addition to sandwiches, snacks, hot beverages, or cold, refreshing beverages.

Photo: Aaron McKenzie Fraser www.amfraser.com

8. Experience Maritime Hospitality

The Maritimes are known for warm and welcoming hospitality, and the Bay Ferries and Northumberland Ferries staff and crew are no exception to this! From our reservation agents who help plan your trip to those on board who are eager to welcome you, our staff and crew are there every step of the way to ensure that your trip is smooth sailing from port to port.

9. Kick Back in Comfort

Say goodbye to cramped cars and say hello to comfortable spaces to kick back and relax while somebody else handles the driving. Grab a bite to eat, find a cozy seat, or scope out a secluded spot on the open-air deck to unwind with the sea breeze. Your onboard experience offers many comforts and family-friendly activities, like daily movies on the Bay Ferries routes or a board game on The CAT.

10. Leave Nothing Behind

Nobody wants the added stress of fitting everything into a carry-on bag or paying extra to check your luggage. When travelling with your vehicle, ferry travel affords the convenience of packing whatever you need to make the most out of your vacation, for example, a suitcase jammed full of your favourite items, or a kayak strapped onto the roof rack.

Your Ferry Adventure is Calling

Between the ocean breeze, the colours of the coastline and the adventures awaiting you on either side, a trip with Bay Ferries and Northumberland Ferries is one you’ll want to take again. Feeling inspired to sail with us? Visit www.ferries.ca to view our routes and schedules and start planning the ferry best adventure.

Photo: Aaron McKenzie Fraser www.amfraser.com

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