FP/DC8TM – FP/DF3TS – Saint-Pierre

Thomas, FP/DC8TM and Martina, FP/DF3TS will be active from August 31 to September 3, 2024 from Saint-Pierre Island, IOTA NA – 032.
They will operate on the HF band.
Nearest DX Point FP/DF3TS
Nearest DX Point FP/DC8TM
QSL is conducted via home call buro, direct, LOTW, eQSL.

Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is an isolated French island in the North Atlantic Ocean

Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is a French overseas territory located in the Cabot Bay in the northern Atlantic Ocean. This small archipelago is a remnant of France’s vast colony in North America, once known as New France. More than 6,000 people live on this 242 square kilometers of islands, most of whom live in the eponymous town on Saint-Pierre. Despite the colder climate, the islands continue to attract visitors with their unique atmosphere. The cloudy and misty weather combined with the magnificent landscape and sea create a picture of isolation, peace and tranquility.

Saint Pierre Island, Saint Pierre and Miquelon. Author – Damien Martin.

History of the island

Saint-Pierre and Miquelon were discovered by Europeans in 1536, but it was not until 70 years later that the first Europeans settled there – by the French. Until 1713, these territories were part of the great colony of Acadia, which, in addition to Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, also included part of what is now Canada. Under an agreement with Great Britain, the continental part of the French colony of Acadia was ceded to Great Britain.

During the American War, Britain forcibly expelled all the islanders, accusing France of supporting revolutionary activities. It was not until 1816 that the lands were returned to France. All changes were completed, and in 1946, the islands were officially returned to France as overseas departments. In 1985, the official status was changed to an overseas community, led by a governor appointed by the French president.

Nature and climate of the archipelago

The archipelago is dominated by hilly terrain, with rocky cliffs along the coastline. The interior of the islands is rich in rivers and streams. Due to the influence of the ocean, the polar climate is slightly milder. Therefore, winters here are snowy, but the average temperature drops to minus 3 degrees Celsius. In summer, the highest temperature on the thermometer reaches 16 degrees Celsius. The weather is “pleasant” all year round, with fog, heavy precipitation and gusty winds.

Due to the rugged terrain, abundant crystalline rocks, and dense swamps, trees are rare on the island. Forests only appear on gentle slopes where the wind does not reach, but even these rare oases have been almost destroyed by logging. Most of the area is covered with dwarf conifers, with occasional birch trees – the only representative of hardwoods. The vegetation composition of the wetlands is similar to that of the tundra.

Local population and cultural background

Almost all of the island’s population is of European descent, mainly French, of whom 95% are Catholics. The national language and the language of daily life is French. Upon arrival in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, you will notice the reserved character of the locals, which is typical of all northern countries. Despite the seemingly cold character of the islanders and their abstemious lifestyle, visitors are greeted with a warm and friendly welcome.

All able-bodied residents on the island are engaged in fishing and processing seafood, and a small amount of seafood is exported. The islanders have no income of their own and can only live on subsidies from France.

Saint Pierre Island, Saint Pierre and Miquelon. Author – Sadura.

Tourism development in Saint Pierre and Miquelon

The islands do not have many attractions, and due to the special climate, the country cannot be called a resort area. Day trips to the islands are common as part of sightseeing tours of northern Canada. Locals do their best to entertain visiting tourists: they offer boat trips along the coast and even organize sailing lessons.

In general, a vacation in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is attractive to tourists who like seclusion. People come here to relax, get away from the crowds, and enjoy the solitude, silence and the coolness of the northern Atlantic waters.

Saint Pierre Island, Saint Pierre and Miquelon. Author – Ben.

Islands Attractions

Despite the fact that the first humans appeared on this land long before the arrival of Europeans, there are no interesting monuments of civilization. The only thing that attracts tourists is a walk around the cities and a few settlements, where the architecture resembles a French village from the beginning of the last century. There are no monuments protected by UNESCO, but lovers of ancient monuments and unusual nature will still find something to do. Here are some interesting places in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon:

• The Ile de la Mer near Saint-Pierre is an open-air museum showcasing life in an old fishing village.
• The majestic sand dunes on Miquelon stretch for 13 kilometres.
• The Saint-Pierre cemetery, where you can organize a complete tour to discover the unusual combination of French and American styles.
• The “sound” of the Brave Lighthouse, an imposing modern building, further emphasizes the ascetic and secluded atmosphere of the island.
• History buffs can visit the museum which details the history of the island.

Culinary traditions of Saint Pierre and Miquelon

The local cuisine is influenced by the culinary traditions of the people who live here. The cuisine here is a blend of French, Spanish and New World traditions. The islands are located on the migratory route of cod, which makes cod a staple in most everyday dishes. Almost every restaurant will serve cod, fried, boiled, smoked and salted. Other seafood – crabs, mussels, snails – are equally popular.

In addition to seafood, the traditional dish is frog legs with spicy sauce and potatoes. Each restaurant offers fine wine, brandy or champagne shipped from France, as the island’s climate is not suitable for making wine.

From the exotic dishes that come from the New World tradition, you can taste fried bananas or lasagna, where crab and mussels replace meat. The dessert menu is represented by the same French gastronomy – soufflés, custard cakes, chocolate biscuits, ice cream and other traditional desserts.

How to organize an island tour

When planning your vacation, you should take into account that there are no direct flights from Europe to the islands and you will have to fly via Canada, for example with a connection in St. John’s or Halifax. There are two international airports in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, one for each island.

Like France, the main currency in St. Pierre and Miquelon is the Euro, but due to the large number of American tourists, locals are reluctant to accept U.S. dollars as payment.

Another way to communicate with the archipelago is by ferry, starting from the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Many cruise itineraries sailing the North Atlantic in summer include the islands. You can also sail to the islands on your own on a chartered yacht.

FP/DC8TM FP/DF3TS Where is Saint Pierre Island located. Map.