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Discover Ile aux Marins, a tranquil island retreat in Saint Pierre and Miquelon, where history, culture, and nature come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Ile aux Marins, also known as Sailors' Island, is a small, picturesque island located in the archipelago of Saint Pierre and Miquelon. This charming island is steeped in history and culture, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the maritime life of the past. Once a bustling fishing village, Ile aux Marins is now a peaceful retreat, with its quaint wooden houses, narrow streets, and stunning coastal views.

When is the best time to visit Ile aux Marins?

Best: June–August · 13–16°C

0° Temperature Range for JanuaryLow: -6.3°C, High: 0.1°C Precipitation Range for JanuaryLow: 88 mm, High: 128.7 mm J

1° Temperature Range for FebruaryLow: -5.9°C, High: 0.5°C Precipitation Range for FebruaryLow: 78.2 mm, High: 114.8 mm F

2° Temperature Range for MarchLow: -4.5°C, High: 1.5°C Precipitation Range for MarchLow: 72.5 mm, High: 106.9 mm M

4° Temperature Range for AprilLow: -1.3°C, High: 4°C Precipitation Range for AprilLow: 64.3 mm, High: 94.1 mm A

8° Temperature Range for MayLow: 2°C, High: 8.2°C Precipitation Range for MayLow: 56.7 mm, High: 82.1 mm M

Best 13° Temperature Range for JuneLow: 5.6°C, High: 12.6°C Precipitation Range for JuneLow: 50.1 mm, High: 73.3 mm J

Best 16° Temperature Range for JulyLow: 8.8°C, High: 15.6°C Precipitation Range for JulyLow: 56 mm, High: 81.8 mm J

Best 15° Temperature Range for AugustLow: 9°C, High: 15.2°C Precipitation Range for AugustLow: 62.3 mm, High: 90.7 mm A

13° Temperature Range for SeptemberLow: 6.6°C, High: 13°C Precipitation Range for SeptemberLow: 70.5 mm, High: 103.3 mm S

9° Temperature Range for OctoberLow: 3.4°C, High: 8.8°C Precipitation Range for OctoberLow: 82.4 mm, High: 120 mm O

5° Temperature Range for NovemberLow: 0.2°C, High: 5°C Precipitation Range for NovemberLow: 88.7 mm, High: 129.3 mm N

2° Temperature Range for DecemberLow: -3.1°C, High: 2.3°C Precipitation Range for DecemberLow: 92.1 mm, High: 134.7 mm D

Average daytime high and rainfall by month
Month	High (°C)	Rainfall (mm)
January	0	108
February	1	97
March	2	90
April	4	79
May	8	69
June (best)	13	62
July (best)	16	69
August (best)	15	77
September	13	87
October	9	101
November	5	109
December	2	113

Getting to and around Ile aux Marins

How to get there

Ile aux Marins is located in the Saint Pierre and Miquelon archipelago, just off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada. The most common way to reach Ile aux Marins is by taking a ferry from the main island of Saint Pierre. Ferries operate regularly during the summer months and less frequently in the off-season. It is also possible to arrange private boat transfers. Saint Pierre can be reached by air through flights from Montreal, Halifax, or St. John's to Saint Pierre Airport (FSP).

Transportation

Ile aux Marins is a small island and is best explored on foot. There are no cars or public transportation services on the island, so visitors should be prepared for a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is recommended. For those who require assistance, it is possible to arrange for a guided tour.

Best attractions in Ile aux Marins

Ile aux Marins in Saint Pierre and Miquelon offers visitors a unique experience blending history and natural beauty. Explore the charming fishing village with its colorful houses and picturesque streets, visit the Maritime Museum to learn about the island's seafaring past, and hike to the lighthouse for stunning ocean views. Don't miss the opportunity to sample fresh seafood at local restaurants and relax on the pristine beaches. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Ile aux Marins has something for everyone.

4.2

Transpacific Shipwreck

Discover the haunting beauty and rich maritime history of the Transpacific Shipwreck on Ile aux Marins, a hidden gem in St. Pierre & Miquelon.

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Best landmarks in Ile aux Marins

Ile aux Marins in Saint Pierre and Miquelon offers visitors a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Explore the charming fishing village with its colorful houses and picturesque harbor, visit the historic lighthouse and museum to learn about the island's maritime past, and take a leisurely stroll along the rugged coastline to enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Don't miss the chance to see the remnants of old shipwrecks scattered along the shore, adding a sense of mystery to this enchanting island.

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Explore Ile aux Marins on the map

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Best restaurants in Ile aux Marins

The dining scene of Ile aux Marins offers visitors a unique and authentic experience, with a variety of seafood restaurants showcasing the local flavors of Saint Pierre and Miquelon. From cozy cafes serving freshly caught lobster and crab to charming bistros with traditional French cuisine, visitors can indulge in delicious meals while enjoying stunning views of the harbor and surrounding landscape. Whether you prefer a casual meal by the water or a fine dining experience with a touch of island charm, Ile aux Marins has something for every palate.

Restaurant 4.1 (16 reviews)

The Jezequel House

Experience authentic regional cuisine at The Jezequel House on Ile aux Marins - where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking coastal views.

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Best bars in Ile aux Marins

The nightlife scene of Ile aux Marins offers visitors a unique and vibrant experience, with a variety of cozy bars and lively nightclubs to choose from. Whether you're looking to relax with a drink and enjoy live music or dance the night away with locals and fellow travelers, you'll find something to suit your mood. With a mix of traditional French influences and modern amenities, the nightlife on Ile aux Marins is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Restaurant 4.1 (16 reviews)

The Jezequel House

Experience the authentic flavors of St. Pierre & Miquelon at The Jezequel House, where local heritage meets delightful dining.

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Best nightclubs in Ile aux Marins

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Best shops in Ile aux Marins

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Ile aux Marins essentials

Currency and Payment

The official currency in Saint Pierre and Miquelon is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are accepted in some establishments, but it is advisable to carry cash as many small businesses on Ile aux Marins may not accept cards. There are no ATMs on Ile aux Marins, so be sure to withdraw enough cash in Saint Pierre before traveling to the island.

Safety

Ile aux Marins is generally a very safe destination with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, visitors should take standard precautions. Keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid isolated areas after dark. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists on Ile aux Marins.

Emergency Situations

In case of emergency, dial 17 for police or 15 for medical emergencies. There are no medical facilities on Ile aux Marins, so any serious medical issues will require transport back to Saint Pierre. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health concerns, carry a basic first aid kit.

Do's and Don'ts

Fashion: Do wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers as the weather can change quickly. Avoid overly flashy clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: There is no public transport on Ile aux Marins, so be prepared to walk. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies and drink responsibly. Don't litter; always dispose of trash properly.

Local Tips

To experience Ile aux Marins like a local, take a guided tour to learn about the island's history and its former residents. Visit the Archipelitude Museum to gain insight into the island's past. Engage with the local guides and ask questions; they are often very knowledgeable and passionate about the island. Don't miss the beautiful views from the island's lighthouse.

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics

English	Local	Say it
Hello	Bonjour	[Bon-zhoor]
Goodbye	Au revoir	[Oh re-vwar]
Yes	Oui	[Wee]
No	Non	[Non]
Please/You're welcome	S'il vous plaît / De rien	[See voo pleh / Deu ryen]
Thank you	Merci	[Mer-see]
Excuse me/Sorry	Excusez-moi / Désolé	[Ex-kew-zay mwa / Day-zo-lay]
How are you?	Comment ça va?	[Koh-mon sah vah?]
Fine. And you?	Bien. Et toi?	[Byen. Ay twah?]
Do you speak English?	Parlez-vous anglais?	[Par-lay voo ahn-glay?]
I don't understand	Je ne comprends pas	[Zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]

Eating & Drinking

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to see the menu, please	Je voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît	[Zhuh voo-dray vwahr lah kart, see voo pleh]
I don't eat meat	Je ne mange pas de viande	[Zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vee-and]
Cheers!	Santé!	[Sahn-tay]
I would like to pay, please	Je voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît	[Zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, see voo pleh]

Emergencies

English	Local	Say it
Help!	À l'aide!	[Ah layd]
Go away!	Allez-vous en!	[Al-lay voo on]
Call the Police!	Appelez la police!	[Ah-puh-lay lah po-lees]
Call a doctor!	Appelez un médecin!	[Ah-puh-lay uh med-sahn]
I'm lost	Je suis perdu	[Zhuh swee pair-doo]
I'm ill	Je suis malade	[Zhuh swee mah-lahd]

Shopping

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to buy...	Je voudrais acheter...	[Zhuh voo-dray ah-shuh-tay]
I'm just looking	Je regarde juste	[Zhuh ruh-gard jwe-st]
How much is it?	Combien ça coûte?	[Kohm-byen sah koot]
That's too expensive	C'est trop cher	[Say troh shay]
Can you lower the price?	Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?	[Poo-vay voo beh-say luh pree]

Time & Numbers

English	Local	Say it
What time is it?	Quelle heure est-il?	[Kell ur eh-teel]
It's one o'clock	Il est une heure	[Eel eh tew-nyuh]
Half past (10)	Dix heures et demie	[Dee-zeur ay duh-mee]
Morning	Matin	[Mah-tan]
Afternoon	Après-midi	[Ah-pray mee-dee]
Evening	Soir	[Swah]
Yesterday	Hier	[Yehr]
Today	Aujourd'hui	[Oh-zhoor-dwee]
Tomorrow	Demain	[Duh-mahn]
1	Un	[Ewn]
2	Deux	[Deu]
3	Trois	[Twa]
4	Quatre	[Kat]
5	Cinq	[Sank]
6	Six	[Sees]
7	Sept	[Set]
8	Huit	[Weet]
9	Neuf	[Nuff]
10	Dix	[Deeze]

Transport & Directions

English	Local	Say it
Where's a/the...?	Où est le/la...?	[Oo eh luh/lah]
What's the address?	Quelle est l'adresse?	[Kell eh lah-dress]
Can you show me (on the map)?	Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?	[Poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)]
When's the next (bus)?	Quand est le prochain (bus)?	[Kond eh luh proh-shan (bus)]
A ticket (to ....)	Un billet (pour ....)	[Ewn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Ile aux Marins

Early Settlements

Ile aux Marins, originally named Île-aux-Chiens, has been inhabited since the 17th century. The island served as a seasonal fishing base for French and Basque fishermen who were attracted by the abundant cod stocks in the nearby waters.

The Golden Age of Fishing

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Ile aux Marins became a bustling hub for the fishing industry. The island's population swelled as fishermen and their families settled there. The community thrived thanks to the rich fishing grounds, and the island was dotted with fish processing plants, homes, and businesses that catered to the fishing trade.

Church of Notre-Dame-des-Marins

Built in 1874, the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Marins is one of the most iconic landmarks on the island. This wooden church, with its striking spire, served as the spiritual heart of the community. It stands as a testament to the island's vibrant past and the importance of faith in the daily lives of its inhabitants.

Decline and Exodus

By the mid-20th century, advancements in fishing technology and the depletion of fish stocks led to a decline in the island's population. Many residents moved to the larger island of Saint Pierre or emigrated to mainland France and Canada, seeking better economic opportunities. By the 1960s, Ile aux Marins was largely abandoned.

Preservation and Tourism

In recent decades, efforts have been made to preserve the cultural and historical heritage of Ile aux Marins. Many of the island's buildings have been restored, and the island now serves as an open-air museum. Tourists can explore the well-preserved homes, the church, and other historical structures, gaining insight into the island's storied past.

The Archipelago's Role in Prohibition

During the Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933), Saint Pierre and Miquelon, including Ile aux Marins, became a significant hub for smuggling alcohol into the US. The archipelago's strategic location and the lax enforcement of alcohol laws made it an ideal staging ground for rum-runners.

The Lighthouse of Ile aux Marins

The lighthouse, built in 1870, served as a crucial navigational aid for ships in the treacherous waters around Saint Pierre and Miquelon. It stands as a symbol of the island's maritime heritage and the crucial role it played in ensuring the safety of vessels navigating these waters.

Modern-Day Celebrations

Today, Ile aux Marins is the site of various cultural festivals and events that celebrate the island's rich heritage. These events, often held during the summer months, attract visitors from around the world and help keep the island's traditions alive.

Ile aux Marins in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

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Discover Île aux Marins in Saint Pierre and Miquelon: A tranquil island steeped in maritime history, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm.

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