The Confederation Bridge is the only fixed link between Prince Edward Island and the mainland, a curving 12.9 km span over the Northumberland Strait that opened on 31 May 1997. Most of it rides about 40 m above the water, rising to 60 m of clearance at the main navigation span, and the crossing takes roughly 12 minutes at the 80 km/h limit, longer in wind and weather. For many visitors it is the way onto the island, and for some it is a sight in its own right. It is one of the few things on PEI that is as good in winter as in summer, since it is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and needs no reservation. The toll is collected when you leave PEI at the plaza in Borden-Carleton, not on the way in.
What to do
The simplest way to experience the bridge is to drive it, taking the crossing slowly and watching the water and the long curve ahead. On the island side, the Borden-Carleton area is where the bridge meets the shore, and it is worth a short stop to see its scale from land. Photographers like it in low light, and the structure looks very different in fog, in a winter freeze and at sunset. If you are not driving across, you can still see it from the PEI shore near the toll plaza.
Practical planning
The bridge's own tolls page says the toll is collected leaving Prince Edward Island, at a flat rate for a standard two-axle vehicle of about 20 dollars, and rates can change, so confirm on the bridge's site. Pedestrians and cyclists cannot simply walk or ride across; they are carried by a shuttle service with a separate small fee. Wind can slow or restrict traffic, particularly for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles, so check conditions on the day if you are travelling in a storm or in winter.
Fitting it in
A crossing is a transport decision more than a sightseeing slot, so build it into your arrival or departure day. Allow time to drive from Borden-Carleton to Charlottetown, which is a straightforward drive of under an hour, and note that the south shore route is scenic if you are not in a hurry. If you are arriving by air instead, you can still book a south shore or bridge-focused day trip. Without a car, the bridge is harder to enjoy, so plan transport ahead.
What to expect
The experience
A drive across a 12.9 km bridge between New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island, with a toll collected when you leave the island.
Best time
Daylight in clear weather for the view, though the bridge is open day and night all year.
How long
The crossing takes about 12 minutes at the posted speed.
Tips
Check wind conditions in storms or winter, keep the toll payment ready when leaving PEI, and book the shuttle if you are on foot or by bicycle.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers arriving or leaving by road who want the classic island entrance.
- Families
- Children are often thrilled by the length and the sea on both sides, and there is no need to stop on the bridge.
- Couples
- Cross at golden hour for the best light, and treat it as part of a south shore drive.
- Pair with
- A south shore drive, the lighthouses and a night in Charlottetown or Borden-Carleton.
- Time needed
- About 12 minutes on the bridge, plus travel time to Charlottetown.
Good questions
How long is the Confederation Bridge?+
It is 12.9 km long and opened on 31 May 1997. The crossing takes about 12 minutes at the 80 km/h limit, longer in wind or heavy traffic.
Do I pay a toll to enter PEI?+
No. The bridge's site says the toll is collected when leaving Prince Edward Island, at the plaza in Borden-Carleton. Tolls are based on the number of axles, and the standard car rate was about 20 dollars when checked.
Can I walk or cycle across?+
Pedestrians and cyclists are served by a shuttle service, with small separate fees, rather than crossing under their own power. Check the bridge's site for the shuttle details.
Is the bridge open in winter?+
Yes. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with no reservation needed, although strong wind can restrict some vehicles.
Is there a ferry as an alternative?+
A seasonal car ferry also links Nova Scotia to the island, and its schedule and fares should be checked with the operator. The bridge is the only year-round fixed link.
