Frequently Asked Ferry Questions

Travel for no fee from Nova Scotia to PEI on standby. Boarding is subject to availability based on vehicle type or height, not necessarily “first-come, first-served”. For guaranteed boarding, make a reservation by booking a Round-Trip or a Flexible One-Way Fare.However, to guarantee your space, you must pre-book and pay the applicable fare. Note that whether booking one-way or round-trip travel, the fare is the same. If you book one-way, you can convert your booking to a round-trip later by calling us. To depart PEI via the Confederation Bridge, you will be responsible for paying the bridge toll.

All travellers whether personal vehicle, commercial, or walk-on, are strongly encouraged to make a reservation. A reservation will guarantee your spot, ensure a quicker check-in, and allow us to plan the loading of vehicles. Book your spot online or call 1.877.762.7245 to make a reservation. Accurate overall vehicle height and length are required at time of booking.

Commercial reservations must be made by calling toll free 1.877.762.7245 .

  • Credit card
  • License plate number, if you’re bringing a vehicle (overall length and height of oversize vehicles or vehicles carrying items on or behind the vehicle, ie. bike or kayak rack)
  • Names of all occupants in vehicle

Spyders/slingshots can take up the same amount of lane meters as a regular passenger vehicle, up to (less than 7′ high and 20′ long).

If using a rental vehicle, please enter “RENTAL” in the license plate field when booking online.

Pick-up areas are available in both ferry terminals.

Yes, parking is available at both terminals. In Wood Islands, parking is located behind the terminal building. Look for signs marked “public parking”. In Caribou, parking is located beside the terminal building and can be accessed by taking a right turn at the junction at the entrance to the compound. Parking is at your own risk.

In event of a cancelled crossing, Northumberland Ferries will send you an email advisory including options on how to rebook or cancel your reservation. 

If you have not provided us with an email address, our agents will attempt to call you as soon as possible. 

Please be sure to give us contact information that you will have access to while travelling. If you are travelling out of country, please keep cell phone data access in mind. 

When in doubt, please call our toll free line or our ferry terminals – they will be able to advise you of service interruptions and help you rebook/cancel your reservation. 

Want to receive updates on ferry schedule changes? 

Text SAIL to 1.866.397.1961 

to sign up for Northumberland Ferries’ sailing alerts.

Reservations may be modified or cancelled for a full refund prior to the scheduled departure. A fee of $25 applies to no-shows.

There are no ATM’s onboard or at the terminals. We advise having some cash on hand if possible.

Seating is first-come, first served. We offer a variety of seating options.

In an effort to provide and support the health and wellness of our passengers and employees, Northumberland Ferries is pleased to provide a smoke-free environment on board the vessels and within the Wood Islands and Caribou Terminal properties. Smoking is not permitted including vapor products, e-cigarettes and cannabis.

No.

Are you a safety-focused, team player with exceptional customer service skills? Would you enjoy working in a unique environment with a diverse staff and crew, serving travellers from near and far? If you think you are a good fit for our team, Apply Today