Because Prince Edward Island is an Island (well, duh!) ferries have long been a key to coming and going here. You can also take the Confederation Bridge
There are two ferry services to consider if you are visiting PEI. The Northumberland Ferries connects Caribou, Nova Scotia to Wood Islands, and the Îles-de-la-madeleine ferry connects these wind-swept islands in the Gulf of St Lawrence to Souris.
Northumberland Ferries
This one gets you to/from PEI, east of Charlottetown.
Northumberland Ferries depart from Caribou, Nova Scotia and Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island, on a schedule of about every hour and a half, offering a pleasant respite. The 75-minute trip, spent enjoying a chat and a snack, lounging on the deck and soaking up the sunshine and sea air, is often considered a vacation highlight. The trip is both relaxing and picturesque in fair weather. The ferries, however, are vulnerable to weather-related delays,so plan accordingly.
Wood Islands is the gateway community to scenic and lively eastern Prince Edward Island.Wood Islands is roughly 60 km from Charlottetown, which typically translates into 45-60 minute drive via the Trans Canada Highway (Route 1).
The fare for the ferry is paid only when leaving the Island. Ferries tend to be every 3 or 4 hours throughout the day. Up-to-the-minute schedule information and fare information is available by telephoning, toll-free, 1-877-359-3760. Fares include driver & passengers and increase with the length of car & trailer combination.The ferry does not operate from the end of December until early May.
Year-round access to the mainland is via the Confederation Bridge which connects Borden Carleton (west of Charlottetown) to Cape Tourmantine, New Brunswick, near Moncton
PEI Provincial Map