Getting to Newfoundland & Labrador
Travel options, ferries, and moving logistics for your relocation to NL
If you’re planning a move to Newfoundland and Labrador, figuring out how to actually get here is one of the first big steps. Because the island is separated from mainland Canada, relocating here involves a bit more planning than a typical interprovincial move. Many people fly directly into St. John’s, while others choose to drive across Canada and take the Marine Atlantic ferry from Nova Scotia so they can bring their vehicle and household belongings with them. The right option often depends on where you’re moving from, how much you’re bringing, and how quickly you want to settle into your new home.
Below you’ll find the most common ways people travel to Newfoundland and Labrador when relocating, along with resources to help make the journey smoother. Whether you’re flying in, taking the ferry with your vehicle, or coordinating a cross-Canada move with a moving company, understanding your options ahead of time can make the transition much easier.
Need Help Finding a Home in Newfoundland?
If you’re planning a move and want guidance on neighbourhoods, housing prices, or the buying process in Newfoundland, our real estate team is here to help. We regularly assist newcomers relocating to the St. John’s region and can provide local insight to help you find the right home and community.
Cross Canada Moves: Interprovincial Migration
Moving From BC to Newfoundland
Many people relocating to Newfoundland from British Columbia are looking for a slower pace of life, coastal scenery, and more affordable housing compared to cities like Vancouver or Victoria. While the climates are different, both regions offer strong connections to the ocean and outdoor recreation. If you are moving from BC, long-distance moving companies or shipping containers are commonly used, and delivery timelines can range from one to two weeks depending on the route and ferry scheduling.
Moving from Alberta to Newfoundland
Some people moving to Newfoundland from Alberta are returning home after working in the oil and gas industry, while others are looking for a lifestyle change and coastal living. Compared to cities like Calgary or Edmonton, the St. John’s region offers shorter commutes and a strong sense of community. Long-distance moves from Alberta typically involve trucking companies or container shipping, and planning ahead is important since travel distances and ferry transport can affect timelines.
Moving From Ontario to Newfoundland
Ontario is one of the most common provinces people relocate from when moving to Newfoundland. Many newcomers from cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and the Greater Toronto Area are drawn to the St. John’s region for its smaller communities, coastal lifestyle, and more attainable home prices. When planning a move from Ontario, many families compare cost of living, long-distance moving companies, container shipping services, or freight options to transport their belongings to the island.
Marine Atlantic Ferry Routes to Newfoundland
Traveling to Newfoundland by Ferry
Many cross-country moves to Newfoundland involve driving across Canada and boarding the ferry in North Sydney, Nova Scotia, which is the main gateway to the island. Most people relocating to Newfoundland by vehicle or moving truck will travel via the Marine Atlantic ferry, which connects North Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port aux Basques or Argentia, Newfoundland. The Port aux Basques route operates year-round and takes about 6–8 hours, while the Argentia route is seasonal and takes approximately 16 hours but brings you closer to the St. John’s region and eastern Newfoundland communities . If you are driving across Canada with your belongings, it’s important to book ferry reservations in advance, especially during busy summer travel periods or when transporting larger vehicles such as moving trucks, trailers, or shipping containers.
Air Travel & Flights to Newfoundland
Traveling to Newfoundland by Plane
For many people relocating to Newfoundland and Labrador, flying is the fastest and easiest way to reach the province. Several airports across the island and Labrador offer regular flights from major Canadian cities, making travel relatively convenient even though the province is separated from mainland Canada.
The largest airport is St. John’s International Airport (YYT), which serves the capital city and the surrounding Avalon Peninsula. There are regular direct or connecting flights from cities such as Toronto, Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa, and occasionally western Canadian hubs depending on the season.
Other airports in the province include Deer Lake Regional Airport (YDF) on the west coast, which is commonly used for travel to Corner Brook and Gros Morne National Park, and Gander International Airport (YQX) in central Newfoundland. Labrador also has several regional airports connecting communities across the region.
If you’re planning to move to St. John’s or the surrounding communities, flying into YYT is typically the most convenient option.
Hiring a Cross-Canada Moving Company
If you’re relocating to Newfoundland with a full household of furniture and belongings, hiring a long-distance moving company is often the easiest option. Many national and regional movers specialize in cross-Canada relocations and regularly coordinate moves to Newfoundland and Labrador.
Because Newfoundland is an island, most moving companies will transport your belongings by truck across Canada and then load the truck onto the Marine Atlantic ferry from Nova Scotia to Port aux Basques or Argentia. From there, your items are delivered to your final destination anywhere in the province.
When planning a long-distance move, it’s a good idea to get quotes from several companies and confirm what services are included. Some movers offer full-service packing, vehicle transport, and storage options if your new home isn’t ready right away. Booking early is also recommended, especially during peak moving months in the summer when many families relocate.
Many people moving to Newfoundland choose to ship their belongings while flying ahead to the province to start settling in. This can make it easier to secure housing, explore neighbourhoods, and begin getting familiar with daily life here.
