Thought I would post to bring this to the front.

I made a rush trip to Nova Scotia over Friday and today. Not my style to not have caches loaded and not be able to stop, but, I was helping two friends get onto their sailboat near Halifax to bring it home and bringing their car back.

Here is my route and the approximate time: Bangor to Calais about 2 1/4 hours. Calais to Saint John (and remember once you cross the border you ADD an hour - that proved to be an almost fatal mistake for the Capt. who planned our trip - as he failed to do that in the planning and we nearly missed the ferry) - time about 1 1/2 hour. I am strong on my time by a bit because not everyone drives over the limit - traffic needs to be allowed - and we did move right along.

We opted to take the Digby Ferry out of St. John. The passage is 3 hours. They like you there 1 hour before departure. I would say with the date for the mega - reservations might be required and I strongly recommend them. Reservations may be made on line. They give discounts for AAA and Seniors - booking round trip as well, I believe. The ferry people were very courteous and helpful. A variety of food, beverage and snacks are available onboard. A travel guide person on board who hands out very nice maps and has helpful hints. Gift shop, arcade, internet, children's play area rest rooms, etc. I will suggest, the seats inside (and you have to leave your car) fill up fast. Bring your blanket and pillow and move right upstairs to stake your claim with your friends as soon as your car is parked.

Once docked and your car is off, you can head in town and towards the town with the event. I had one regret with this rush trip - that I had to keep driving and couldn't take the time to cache (in either direction). I drove right through the town of venue as we used Route 10 as a cross cut rather than driving around to reach the marina. I believe it was about 1 1/2 hours across to the venue town but I may be wrong.

I stayed overnight in Digby before hopping back on the ferry this morning. My stay at the Admiral Digby Inn & Cottages was very enjoyable - the only regret - to short. From checking in very late - to my early morning check out - it was perfect. Jacqueline checked me in - and out and was wonderful - a fun lady with a great personality. They have an indoor pool, cable TV, free wi-fi, in room coffee maker and a coin laundry. Nice clean rooms. Wished I could have tried the restaurant too.

Another disappointment was trying to do one cache early this morning in the rain and not finding it - perhaps it was me. I hope so.

Anyway - I have been told the ferry takes the same amount of time as driving but saves the mileage. If I had the time, I would probably do a loop - ferry over, mega, up the coast and long drive home - to enjoy the scenery. One thing this ensured - I wished I was able to go to the Mega - I am sure all will have fun.

To the hosts and hostess - I will be back - and hopefully able to give you all some notice, cache my heart out and meet some of you! Beautiful country and I can't believe it has been over 20 years since I was last here.