getting to Francois

The Journey Is Part of the Experience

Francois is a roadless coastal community, accessible only by ferry or air. Plan your route, check schedules, and prepare to travel the way generations have — by sea.

There are no highways to Francois — only open water and sky. Accessible by sea or air, the journey here is as memorable as the destination.

What to Know Before You Travel

Planning Your Meals

Francois does not have restaurants, so visitors are encouraged to bring groceries or a small cooler with meal essentials for their stay. There are also no grocery stores so visitors should bring their own groceries. If you are staying for an extended period, groceries can be ordered from Burgeo. Accommodations are equipped for self-catering, with basic cooking supplies and spices provided.

Boater Information

Francois Harbour features three floating docks with space available for visiting vessels, including sailboats. Gas and diesel can be purchase at the dock. Docking fees are $1.00 per metre and are managed by the Harbour Authority.

For docking inquiries or to arrange moorage, please contact:

Austin Fudge: 709-842-3396
Ralph Durnford: 709-277-4436

Ferry Information

From Burgeo, board the passenger ferry to the timeless outport of Francois — a place where the journey is just as memorable as the destination. The scenic voyage winds along Newfoundland’s rugged south coast, with dramatic cliffs, quiet coves, and open Atlantic views unfolding around you. Keep watch for dolphins riding the bow wake or sunfish drifting near the surface in the summer months.

See ferry schedule

See rates

Crossing Times

Grey River – Francois: 1 hour 45 minutes (35 km)
Grey River – Burgeo: 2 hours (41 km)
Francois – McCallum: 2 hours 15 minutes (47 km)
McCallum – Hermitage: approximately 1.5 hours (26 km)

Seasonal Schedule Notice

The vessel operates on a modified schedule annually from December 1 to February 1.

During this period:

Depart Francois: 7:00 AM
Depart Burgeo: 1:00 PM
Depart Hermitage: 1:00 PM

Please confirm schedules in advance, as times may be subject to change.

Ferry Rates

Passenger and freight rates are charged separately. Please note that this is a passenger and freight service only — no vehicles are permitted on the vessel.

Ferry fares are cash only, so travellers should plan accordingly.

Other Ways to Reach Francois

While most visitors arrive by ferry from Burgeo or by air, there are other ways to reach Francois for those seeking adventure.

During the winter months, Francois can sometimes be reached by snowmobile when conditions allow. This route is typically used by experienced riders familiar with the region and winter travel along the south coast.
For adventurous and well-prepared travellers, Francois has occasionally been reached by experienced hikers travelling through the rugged backcountry. These routes require strong navigation skills and experience with remote terrain.
Francois can also be visited by expedition cruise ships. Adventure Canada typically stops in the community 2 or 3 times each year, allowing guests to experience the scenery, culture, and hospitality of this unique outport.