Atlantic Canada Ferry Information Ferry Travel Newfoundland Nova Scotia

Atlantic Canada Ferry - Information
Q: Do you offer assistance for people with disabilities ? A: Our crew and terminal staff are pleased to offer additional assistance for persons with disabilities. Adapted cabins can be reserved, subject to availability. Although vessel design does not permit wheelchair maneuverability in all areas, help is available on request. Our reservation system may be accessed through TDD equipment. If you require special assistant, please make this known when booking your reservation, and identify yourself accordingly to terminal staff immediately on arrival. To facilitate preboarding, please check in 90 minutes prior to sailing time. Passengers unable to travel independently due to disability or medical reasons may be entitled to have an attendant accompany them at no additional charge.
Q: What should I do with my baggage ? A:Passengers without vehicles may check baggage, subject to limitations of liability. Details are available at ferry terminals. Please note that valuable items, including but not limited to cash, jewelry, important documents, electronic equipment, cameras, antiques or heirlooms should not be carried in checked baggage, and Marine Atlantic accepts no responsibility for their loss or damage. We reserve the right to refuse objectionable items, or baggage that is not properly packaged or secured. Each adult passenger is permitted a maximum of three (3) pieces of checked baggage, totaling not more than 150 lbs. at no charge. Each child between the ages of 5 and 12 years inclusive, is permitted two (2) pieces of checked baggage, totaling not more than 75 lbs. at no charge. Freight and parcel service charges, as outlined in the Marine Atlantic Tariff, will apply on additional baggage.
Q: Is smoking allowed ? A: Passengers can now enjoy a smoke free atmosphere in all passenger areas onboard the vessels. Federal legislation requires that our employees ensure compliance in this regard. Smoking is permitted outside in marked areas. Please do not throw butts and litter overboard.
Q: Can I bring my pet on the passenger deck ? A: Pets are not permitted on passenger decks or inside terminal buildings. Kennels are available without charge and are located on the left and right side of the ship on number four deck by the escalators. To ensure the security of your pet during the voyage, padlocks are available on payment of a deposit, or it is recommended to bring your own. If you wish, you may also leave your pet in your vehicle. Animals can be taken outside, aft on number three car deck to relieve themselves. The onus is on the owner to clean up behind their pet. Please Note: Access to the vehicle deck, for purposes of visiting pets in vehicles, or for pets to relieve themselves, is permitted only if accompanied by a vessel employee at pre-arranged scheduled times. Please check at Chief Steward's office for times. Exception: Service animals, for visually or hearing impaired passengers, are allowed in all passenger areas of the vessel.
Q: Where can I sleep onboard the ferry ? A: For health and safety reasons, passengers are not permitted to sleep on the floor. Our crew will enforce this regulation. Private cabins are equipped with four berths, which may be folded for daytime seating arrangements. Each unit has its own washroom with shower. All necessary towels and bedding are provided. Dormitory sleepers are open berths in a supervised area, with a pillow and blanket provided. Day niters (MV Joseph and Clara Smallwood only) are fully reclining seats with leg rest, located in a reserved lounge.
Q: Are the ferries always on schedule? What should I do if not ? A: While every effort is made to operate in accordance with published schedules they are subject to change without notice. Crossing times shown are approximate, and may vary with weather and sea conditions. Unforeseen circumstances may require cancellation of scheduled sailings or substitution of vessel. Passengers holding reservations for a cancelled sailing will be accommodated as space permits on subsequent departures. Please note that we cannot assume responsibility for expenses incurred because of delayed or cancelled sailings.
Q: Can I stay in my vehicle during crossing ? A: Passengers are not permitted to remain in their vehicle during the crossing. If it is necessary to return to your vehicle, you must be accompanied by a member of the crew.
Q: Are there any Safety Information I should know ? A: Canada Shipping Act provisions regarding dangerous cargo must be followed. Recreational vehicles carrying propane must have cylinder valves fully closed before boarding the ship, and no gas appliances can be operated on board. On arrival at destination, drivers are requested not to start their engines until directed to do so by our personnel, or until traffic ahead has begun to disembark. This will help keep exhaust emissions on the vehicle deck to a minimum. The crew are thoroughly trained in emergency procedures. However, Marine Atlantic recommends that all passengers familiarize themselves with the location and instructions for use of life jackets and evacuation stations.