Confederation Bridge

The longest bridge in the world over ice-covered water

Crossing

The Confederation Bridge is operated by Strait Crossing Bridge Limited

Photo Op

The Cape Jourimain Observation Tower offers the best views of the Confederation Bridge. Cherish your visit with the perfect picture!

History

The Confederation Bridge was built between 1993 and 1997 to provide a more reliable and high-capacity means of transit between Prince Edward Island and mainland Canada. 

When Prince Edward Island joined Confederation in 1873, the Government of Canada committed to providing continuous communication to the island. This role was originally filled by the Cape Jourimain iceboat service, and later the Cape Tormentine ferry, which transported mail and passengers across the Northumberland Strait. 

Early proposals for a fixed-link crossing included an underwater tunnel and a rock-filled causeway. In the 1960s, a roadbed was built to the edge of Jourimain Island with the intent of building a fixed-link, but the project was never completed.

In the late 1980s, new-found enthusiasm revived the project and construction began in 1993. The 12.9 kilometre box girder bridge opened to the public in 1997, ending the service of the Cape Tormentine ferry and the Cape Jourimain lighthouse