A large ferry calmly sails through a placid body of water under a clear blue sky. Rugged rock formations are visible in the foreground, and distant green hills stretch along the horizon. The scene is tranquil and expansive.

Five Reasons to Drive and Take the Scenic Route

By Newfoundland & Labrador

For centuries, people have travelled by boats and ships, across rivers, lakes and oceans. The freedom of a voyage by sea to a destination of adventure is only fitting. When driving, you have the possibility to stop and explore at a moments notice, taking routes along coasts and through forests, meeting people and soaking in the culture of villages, bays and coves.
For those who need a little reminding, or for those who have never had the opportunity, here are some reasons why your next trip to Newfoundland & Labrador should include taking your vehicle of choice on the Marine Atlantic ferry.

A scenic, winding road leads through a lush, green mountainous landscape under a clear blue sky with a few clouds. A calm body of water lies to the left, bordered by dense forests and hills.

The Gates to the Wreckhouse near Red Rocks

1) Sail Away

Would you prefer the window, the aisle or the big blue sky? The sweeping ocean scenery available from Marine Atlantic’s panoramic, open-air viewing decks is unlike anything you’ll experience with another mode of travel. Breathe in the fresh air and feel the mist of the salt water, watch for marine life and daydream as the sun sets on the horizon.

A car with a kayak on its roof drives down a rural road, surrounded by lush green trees. In the background, there is a large, sunlit mountain and a distant body of water under a partly cloudy sky.

Norris Point Gros Morne National Park

2) Bring What You Want

Bring your car or motorhome and pack your hiking boots, kayak, kitchen sink or whatever else you require for adventure. Bring what you need and your opportunities to explore our province are endless.

A panoramic view of a winding road beside a river, surrounded by vibrant autumn trees. The sky is dramatic, with clouds partially illuminated by the setting sun, casting warm hues over the landscape.

Humber Valley

3) Take a load off

The journey is part of the adventure, and this journey is aboard a vessel with a cruise ship feel and panoramic views. You get a whole new sailing experience between Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia as the trip itself becomes part of your vacation. Once on-board you can sit back, relax and disconnect. Take a walk around the ship or relax and recharge in your private cabin and let the gentle roll of the ocean rock you to sleep.

4) Flexibility

While this place is off the beaten path, the summer season is particularly busy, and as a result car rental reservations can book up fast. So, why not drive your own vehicle and after making it to our shores, take your time as you explore our communities. Take a turn on a whim, visit a historic site or attraction, stop for your favourite hot beverage, detour at your leisure and explore on your own itinerary!

A white SUV drives along a winding coastal road with rocky cliffs on one side and a calm body of water on the other. Lush green hills and a partly cloudy sky are in the background.

Burin

5) Explore More Behind The Wheel

When you travel by ferry, there are two points of entry, Port Aux Basque on the west coast and Argentia on the east coast. Both are great ways to start visiting tickles and coves, towns and bays, and both connect to a plethora of scenic driving routes.

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So why not take the scenic route and enjoy everything that an ocean adventure has to offer. For ferry bookings and crossing information look here: marineatlantic.ca/