#17 Down East Circle; St Pierre Miquelon

After spending an extra day at Ramea Island the weather report was favorable and the fog was expected to burn off.  So I set out for St Pierre.  I had thought to go as far as Francios but decided to do the whole trip in one day because of weather uncertainties. As it turned out that was a good decision. I motored most uneventful all the way.  It was sunny and relatively warm so I put a chair in the bow and used my remote to steer the boat for about 8 hrs of the 10 spent traveling.  I did spot some whales breaching about 5 miles away, but getting any closer was impossible, as they would be gone by the time I arrived.

Arriving at St Pierre, I was greeted by Enrique the harbormaster.  He got in touch with the customs and immigration control folks and after I tied up, they were there to process me thru.  It took less than 15 minutes to get cleared.  The sailboat regatta was concluding today as the race had been run and won. There was a band and party tonight at the Yacht Club to which I attended.

First look at France on the approach

St Pierre is a sea port town, with most of the buildings and town nestled in this natural harbour.  I was pleased to see that most of the houses and the town in general was neat and in good repair.  Notice the colors of the buildings.

I came to St Pierre to celebrate Bastille Day which was happening in a few more days so that is what I did.  I also got a chance to ride my new bike and wear my brand new helmet around the island.

Bastille Day started with children’s games in the AM. There were bands and entertainment all day long.  When I first entered the crowd I was greeted by an organizer carrying large trays of Baggett bread and sausage to which I helped myself, I was next greeted by a wine glass, handed to me by non other than the town mayor. After that there was a blur of activity all afternoon long, with pitchers of wine providing refills at strategic intervals.

There was a Pipe and drum band with Scottish dancers from Nova Scotia providing entertainment at 3 o’clock.  They put on a good show. I got pictured with the leader.

In the evening there was a fireworks display.  It got cool and I had to wear a heavy hoodie for warmth.

I met Mr Poulet, and I have no idea his function at Bastille day.

Some pictures from outside the town

 The harbour and remains of the air field.  A new airport was built on the other side of this mountain.  Now the old air field is being built up with new housing etc.

 Lighthouse facing "Mother France"

 This is an old channel marker buoy, notice the basket affair on top. Haven't a clue as to purpose.

 Back in town.

 On the parking strip for the old airport they are building this new SINGLE building which is the Hospital.

 My attempt at a selfie, the store behind me is a rabbit warren of rooms which have a variety of groceries. Meats in one room, veggies in another.  Kinda cool.  I got a baggett and cheese for tonight.

Hand wenches for pulling up the boats out of water to land.