cmcfong

I had planned to take the ferry from Caribou to PEI and return by the Confederation Bridge. I tried to reserve passage on the ferry for July 10 at 1300 and was told I could not make a reservation in advance. When I asked approximately how long I could expect to be in the queue at that time of year, the gentleman told me he didn't know but would ask around. He put me on hold for a few minutes then came back and said if I were to be in line an hour before the sailing time I would probably get on the ship I chose. Does anyone have any experience that might help me make a decision on how best to plan? I am a little concerned that our travel will be during a very busy time of year and that a wait normally of one hour might be considerably longer in July. Thanks.

lucyp

Hi, I go to P.E.I. every summer and only once used the ferry since they built the bridge - when I was dropped off on one side and picked up on the other ie. on foot.

The problem is you never know how busy it will be, or how many large vehicles such as transport trucks and rv's which take up a lot of room.

That said it is a nice ferry ride and a welcome chance to get out of the car for a while, fun for children that might rarely get on one.

So you must weigh your choices. They never take reservations, and midweek sailings tend to be less busy.

ltt

i took the ferry mid afternoon from pei to ns in mid august. i was there an hour or 90 minutes ahead of time and had no problem getting on. it's nice doing the ferry one way and the bridge the other.

cmcfong

Thank you,both. I had been advised to get reservations and the website allows them but apparently they are only permitted for travel round trip by ferry.

Tanya

Don't worry about ferry reservations or getting on the boat. Before the confederation bridge, you could wait hours for the boat, but now you can basically get on just about anyone by simply driving up 1/2 hour before it sails. Especially if they use the large "Confederation" ferry.

I certainly hope you take the time to explore the area of Pictou County prior to departing for PEI. Beaches, scottish flair, lots to see and do!

cmcfong

Thanks, Tanya. I loved Pictou on my last visit, but this trip is a short one and I really didn't want to commit long hours to a ferry wait. Your reassurance is helpful.

Tanya

The only thing I would check before heading to the Ferry is if the wind conditions may hamper its sailing. That time of year I highly doubt it.

Plus I noticed it is a Tuesday you are sailing - can't imagine there being that much of a line up. Enjoy your trip!

cmcfong

Thank you, Tanya.