Cruising to Saint Pierre and MiquelonBackgroundFirst settled by the French in the early 17th century, the islands represent the sole remaining vestige of France's once vast North American possessions. GeographyLocation: Northern North America, islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, south of
Newfoundland (Canada) Coastline120 km Maritime claimsTerritorial sea: 12 nm ClimateCold and wet, with much mist and fog; spring and autumn are windy TerrainMostly barren rock Elevation extremesLowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m EconomyThe inhabitants have traditionally earned their livelihood by fishing and by servicing fishing fleets operating off the coast of Newfoundland. The economy has been declining, however, because of disputes with Canada over fishing quotas and a steady decline in the number of ships stopping at Saint Pierre. In 1992, an arbitration panel awarded the islands an exclusive economic zone of 12,348 sq km to settle a longstanding territorial dispute with Canada, although it represents only 25% of what France had sought. The islands are heavily subsidized by France to the great betterment of living standards. The government hopes an expansion of tourism will boost economic prospects. Recent test drilling for oil may pave the way for development of the energy sector. TransportationAirports: 2 (2005) Sailing Specifics: Ports and terminals:Saint-Pierre Other Sailing Destinations in the RegionArgentina - Belize - Brazil - Chile - Colombia - Costa Rica - Ecuador - El Salvador - French Guiana - Guatemala - Guyana - Honduras - Mexico - Nicaragua - Panama - Peru - St. Pierre and Miquelon - Suriname - Uruguay - Venezuela Further Reading |
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