About Dartmouth Ferry Ride

A scenic ferry crossing offering unique perspectives of Halifax's skyline and harbor, operating since 1752. It is a classic mode of transportation and a great opportunity for photography.

Features & Highlights

🎯 Ferry
🎯 Views
🎯 Harbor
🎯 Transportation
🎯 Photography

Detailed Information

Dartmouth Ferry Ride

For over 270 years, the Dartmouth Ferry has been connecting Halifax and Dartmouth across Halifax Harbour, offering one of the city's most beloved and affordable experiences. This historic ferry service, operating since 1752, is more than transportation — it is a moving vantage point with panoramic views of the skyline and harbour activity. As you glide across the water, you'll witness the city from a perspective that land-based visitors miss entirely, with panoramic views of historic waterfront buildings, modern skyscrapers, and harbor traffic from ferries and container ships. First-time visitors ride for the photos, locals for the commute — either way, the crossing pairs practicality with the city's best water-level views.

Practical Information

The Dartmouth Ferry is straightforward to use. Here are the essential details.

  • Address: The primary Dartmouth terminal is the Alderney Gate Ferry Terminal, located at 88 Alderney Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4W1. For real-time departure information, you can call 902-480-8000.
  • Hours: The ferry operates daily from 6:30 AM until 11:57 PM. Service is frequent, with boats departing every 15 to 30 minutes depending on the time of day. Note that the service does not run on Christmas Day, New Year's Day, Good Friday, or Easter Sunday.
  • Cost: As of 2025, the standard cash fare is an affordable $3.00, with a reduced fare of $2.25 for seniors (65+). Your fare includes a transfer, valid for 90 minutes on all Halifax Transit bus and ferry services, making a return trip convenient. Payment can be made with cash or via the HFXGO mobile app using a credit or debit card.
  • Booking & Accessibility: No advance booking is required; the service operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The ferries and terminals are fully accessible, with integrated bus connections and accessible boarding. Passengers requiring special assistance are encouraged to identify themselves to terminal staff. Park & Ride facilities are available at both terminals for your convenience. The scenic crossing itself takes approximately 15 minutes.