Race Ports - July 2012
From Saint-Pierre et Miquelon to St. John's
Saint Pierre & Miquelon
The two French islands of Saint Pierre & Miquelon are located off the south coast of Newfoundland. The port of St. Pierre is a European style community with a nautical spirit. It is a delight for tourists with its narrow streets and European architecture. In the French tradition food is a celebration in Saint Pierre; fabulous boulangeries making delicious French breads and pastries daily, local brasseries serving cold pints and wonderful pub food like the French favorite, croque -monsieur, great restaurants to enjoy a wonderful meal and wine served until late into the night. For the crew who likes to party the brasseries and discos stay open ‘till the wee hours.
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
As you round the rocky shore of Cape Spear, North America’s most easterly point, it is a short 3 nautical miles to the port of St. John’s. Hidden behind the rock cliffs called “the Narrows”, brightly coloured houses line the hills and welcome visitors to this lively and picturesque city. Race boats will dock in St. John’s harbour with-in walking distance to the downtown which offers hotels and B&B’s, cafes and 5 star restaurants. There are unique shopping opportunities, art galleries, historic sites and Signal Hill National Historic Park. The night life is second to none. Bars with live entertainment, large dance clubs, and small cozy pubs offer something for everyone on George Street. You can also meet the locals at some of their favorite spots like The Ship Inn and The Crows Nest hidden on the foot paths in the city.
The St. John’s Port Authority invites all boats to join in the annual Port Authority Race on the 24th of July where a challenging tight course will keep the crew hopping. The St. John’s to Long Pond Race on the 25th will bring any interested boats around the north coast of the Avalon Peninsula into beautiful Conception Bay, home of the Royal Newfoundland Yacht Club.