Newfoundland

Part of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Newfoundland is a roughly triangular island of 42,000 square miles. It is the most easterly part of Canada, positioned close to waters that were once the richest fishing grounds in the world. This abundance attracted European colonists, and even today, centuries later, there are still communities that identify themselves by their original nationalities. The sea greatly affects the climate, with highs in the low 70s during summer. Rocky hills, forests and numerous lakes characterize the terrain, with the coastal areas being particularly attractive, dotted with picturesque fish shacks.

There is no easy way to reach Fogo Island. We first flew to St. John’s, in southeast Newfoundland, where we spent the night. Early the next day, we took a 45-minute flight northwest to Gander, followed by a two-hour drive to the ferry dock and a 45-minute crossing. (Privately chartered planes and helicopters can fly you from Gander directly to the Fogo Island airstrip.)

Prime iceberg-viewing season is late May through June.