Newfoundland

The forecast for the night spent starting the crossing of the Davies Strait was ‘optimistic’ (the Captain’s words the following morning). Diva was awakened by a mighty crash as the stabilisers operated even more loudly than usual. It turned out that the waves were higher, the wind stronger and the swell greater than forecast. By morning, things were calmer, but the Captain was already making ‘we might be late at Corner Brook’ noises, because of the lack of speed through the storm.

Strange lights in the light were eventually identified as lights along the Canadian shore-line – the first inhabited shore-line for many days. There have been six days at sea instead of the planned three, Silver Whisper has missed two ports and had half-length stays at two more. This has meant more Tai Chi training sessions than are normally possible on a busy holiday.  But in the St Lawrence river and its estuary, there should be no more significant delays.

Corner Brook was a welcoming port, with someone playing guitar and singing ‘Your Cheatin’ Heart’ on the quayside. No idea why. Part-way through the excursion, tea and snacks were provided at a local church hall by ‘ladies of the parish’ who had made cake and sandwiches in their own kitchens. The crab sandwiches were excellent. They were also selling handicrafts, including knitting and quilting.

Before taking the excursion, TSH and Diva had their traditional ‘at least once in a cruise’ burger on deck. It was the first time it seemed possible and although Newfoundland is much warmer than Greenland, coats and woollies  were needed.

The terrain is much gentler than either Greenland or Iceland, with rounded or flat topped peaks no higher than about 1000 feet. No snow capped  jagged peaks here. The climate ranges from about -10C to about 25C. The interior is wilderness and the coast made up of bays and coves, a bit like parts of Cornwall.

Some leaves have already turned colour, in some cases to a vivid red, although these are the exception and most are still green. There are plenty of rowan berries around.

No phone signal in Canada yet.