Newfoundland, We Call It “The Rock”
Contrary to popular beliefs among those who cruise the Northeast, there is no planetary void at the easternmost edge of Maine. Join me on a cruise way Down East, beyond Maine, beyond Nova Scotia to a whole new world. Shrouded in mystery, southern Newfoundland is a place virtually undiscovered. Yet, to any mariner willing to cross from Maine to the spectacular Canadian Maritimes, it has much to offer within a vast network of fjords and unrivaled scenery.
Some attributes that make Newfoundland’s south coast a cruising destination unlike any other on the east coast of North America are its colorful out-port villages (tiny, isolated communities without road access), impressive fjords, and stunning anchorages. Popular misconceptions have led many boaters to believe that only old salts in heavy, sea-going vessels should attempt a voyage north of latitude 44°.
Most myths that surround this region are unfounded and it wouldn’t surprise me to find that Nova Scotians and Newfoundlanders themselves have spread rumors of cold, foggy Maritime summers, ice bound coasts and blustery winds just to keep the unspoiled harbors and anchorages to themselves.
Myth: Newfoundland is wintry even in the summer with icebergs creating navigational hazards.
Fact: Icebergs never reach the south coast of Newfoundland. In August the water temperature is approximately 65°F and temperatures on shore range from 70 to 80°F. Icebergs, calved in
Greenland, have melted long before reaching the south coast.
Myth: Newfoundland, like Nova Scotia, is perpetually shrouded in fog.
Fact: In August the sea breeze is light and often reduced to calms along the south coast resulting in a warm air mass over inshore waters. As a result, fog moves away from the coast. Also, tides and currents are negligible so expect navigation, using radar and GPS, to be quite simple.
Another fact Maritimers keep secret is that summer arrives late to both Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. August and early September is the best time to cruise the region.
Myth: Newfoundland is too far north, out-of-the-way and has little to offer as a cruising
Fact: To circumnavigate the island of Newfoundland in one season is definitely a push. The island’s south coast, however, lies just above the 47th parallel (less than 200 nautical miles
northing from Schoodic Point, Maine) and is very accessible. In addition to isolated out-ports and stunning fjord anchorages there are hiking trails with amazing vistas, white sand beaches, French islands where one can gorge on great foods and fine wines and you will meet some amazing people.