Driving Time between Calais, Maine and North Rustico, Prince Edward Island

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Road Tripping to Prince Edward Island: A Guide to the Drive from Calais, Maine to North Rustico

Are you dreaming of driving up to the idyllic Prince Edward Island from Calais, Maine? Excited for the scenic route, maritime charm, and delicious seafood that await you on the island? But before you start packing your bags, it’s important to know how long the drive to PEI really takes. Here’s our guide to the different routes, travel times, and traffic patterns to help you plan your road trip!

Fastest Route: Calais, ME to North Rustico, PEI

The quickest way to get to Prince Edward Island from Calais is to take the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) through New Brunswick. The route is approximately 281 miles and takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes without stops. This is the most direct and efficient route, especially if you’re in a hurry to get to your destination.

Travel Time:

  • Without Traffic – 5 hours and 30 minutes
  • Peak Traffic – 6 hours
  • Low Traffic – 5 hours

The Scenic Route: Calais, ME to North Rustico, PEI

Want to take the scenic route to Prince Edward Island? We recommend this route that will take you through the beautiful coastal towns of Maine and New Brunswick. You will take Highway 1 from Calais to Saint John, then hop onto the Fundy Coastal Drive that will take you along the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick. The drive is approximately 320 miles and takes around 7 hours with stops along the way.

Travel Time:

  • Without Traffic – 7 hours
  • Peak Traffic – 8 hours
  • Low Traffic – 6 hours and 30 minutes

The Slow Drive: Calais, ME to North Rustico, PEI

Are you in no hurry to reach Prince Edward Island? Take the slow drive route that will show you the best of Maine, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. You will start on Highway 1 and drive towards Saint John. From there, take the scenic Fundy Coastal Drive that will lead you to Nova Scotia. Then, take the Sunrise Trail that hugs the coast and takes you to Charlottetown in PEI. The drive is approximately 500 miles and takes around 12 hours with stops along the way.

Travel Time:

  • Without Traffic – 12 hours
  • Peak Traffic – 14 hours
  • Low Traffic – 11 hours and 30 minutes

Tips for Planning your Drive

When planning your drive, make sure to check the border crossing wait times, especially during peak season. Also, be aware of any road work, construction, or detours that may affect your route. To avoid peak traffic times, consider leaving early in the morning or later in the evening. And finally, don’t forget to enjoy the drive! There are plenty of sights to see and towns to explore along the way.

So, there you have it. Our guide to the different routes and travel times from Calais, Maine to North Rustico, PEI. Whether you’re in a hurry or want to take the scenic route, there’s an option for every kind of traveler on this beautiful road trip to the maritime province of Canada.