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Community Description
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Grand Manan
--North Head
--Grand Harbour
--Seal Cove
&
White Head Island
Guarding the Bay
Fish!
Dulse!
Whales!
Birds at the Border
Geological Oddities
Grand Manan, the largest island in the western Bay of Fundy, sits like a sentinel at the mouth of the Bay, 22 kilometers / 13 miles off the New Brunswick mainland, and just 15 kilometers / 9 miles from Maine. Alongside this giant, several smaller islands and islets also reside in this archipelago.
Unless you travel by charter aircraft or boat, traveling to Grand Manan requires riding the car ferry (toll on return trip) from Blacks Harbour, New Brunswick -- a trip of about two hours. Then, if going on to White Head Island, another 20-minute ferry trip (free) is required, leaving from Ingles Head.
Ferry travel to Grand Manan is exciting! Upon leaving Blacks Harbour, the ferry passes by Pea Point Lighthouse. While at sea, the view of the mainland and the approaching island can be taken in from the ferry deck. As a bonus, passengers who are attentively looking asea are sometimes rewarded with views of dolphins and whales! Then, when arriving at Grand Manan, as the ferry rounds North Head, Swallow Tail Light appears high on the Head. Finally, the ferry rounds the Head, and approaches the landing at the picturesque community of North Head.
In keeping with the area's maritime nature, several picturesque lighthouses (Long Eddy, Swallow Tail, and Southwest Head) dot Grand Manan, White Head (Sandy Cove), and neighboring islands (Great Duck Island, Machias Seal Island). Four of these lighthouses are easily accessible by car and/or foot.
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Fishing is the principle industry on Grand Manan, and evidence is everywhere: fishing boats, fishing villages, fish plants, wharves, herring weirs (locally pronounced "wair"), and numerous picturesque herring smokehouses can be found around the island.
Some locations (including by Swallow Tail Light) on the island afford overhead views of weirs, most of which are hear-shaped, with a straight "fence" running out to them from shore. The mouth of a weir is curved inward, funneling fish into the device, and then -- once inside -- deflecting the fish's travel into a figure-8 pattern, effectively preventing their departure.
Once a weir is sufficiently filled, the owner harvests its contents using a purse sein, and with the assistance of several helpers in a small boat. They are accompanied by a pumper and the buyer's boat. (Pumpers can be identified by their stainless steel flume behind the boat's wheelhouse.) The purse sein draws the herring up from the bottom, and into an ever-decreasing circle, where the pumper sucks out the fish, which are pumped into the hold of the buyer's boat. In the meantime, due to thrashing in the sein and going through the pumper, nearly all of the herring scales are removed and diverted into bags on the pumper's deck. These scales are then sold for their pearl essence, which is used in lipstick, nailpolish, and other commercial products.
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Grand Manan is also the North American capital for dulse, an edible maroon seaweed, popular as a seasoning, and frequently eaten raw as a snack by many folks in the Quoddy Loop area. This delicacy can frequently be seen drying on nets spread out on lawns. It is then bagged or boxed, and shipped to customers all over the world. Although not for everyone's regular diet, you must at least trying this unusual delicacy! (You may want to share some with your friends back home.)
The centre of dulse-gathering activity is at Dark Harbour, on the west side of the island. The name appropriately depicts its location, shaded in the morning shadows of high cliffs. (Eagles are sometimes seen soaring high overhead!)
The harbour is actually more like a seawater pond with a mouth too shallow to navigate. Hence, dulse gatherers row or motor their dorys across the harbour to the high rock-pebble bar, then winch their boats over the top and down the other side, where the boats can then freely navigate the shores of the island, where -- at extreme low tides -- dulse can be picked as it grows from the ocean floor.
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Another attraction of Grand Manan is that whales frequent these waters. The Atlantic Right Whale--the most endangered of the whale species (only 295 left in existence, as of September, 1997)--can sometimes be seen within the surrounding waters. Finback and humpback whales are frequently seen. Several whalewatch excursions depart from Grand Manan to view these friendly giants of the sea.
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Puffins, too, nest offshore, on Machias Seal Island, almost exactly halfway between Grand Manan and Cutler, Maine. This tiny island is home of a staffed Canadian lighthouse, as well as Canadian wildlife personnel; however, the island is claimed by both Canada and the United States, a remnant boundary dispute from the War of 1812 between England and the United States.
While there is disagreement regarding nationality of the island, it is visited by both Canadian and American birding excursions alike, without the typical customs and immigration clearance required at other border crossings. There are, however, restrictions as to the numbers of people allowed on the island each trip and each day, in order to avoid disrupting the nesting seabirds. Thus, only a restricted number of vessels can make the trip.
Other birding experiences can be had on the beaches of Grand Manan. During the migratory season, thousands of migrating Plovers and Sandpipers paint undulating waves through the air as they flock about over the sands. For a look at stationery area fowl, and other fascinating subjects, Grand Manan Museum houses a fascinating bird exhibit.
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Geological curiosities abound on the island. A natural stone bridge, "Seven Days' Work" (exposed layers of differing-age strata), "Flock of Sheep" (glacial remnants that, at a distance, resemble sheep in a field), and even magnetic sand (there are numerous magnetic anomalies in the Quoddy Loop)!
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This isolated island lies just to the southeast of Grand Manan, peering outward from the mouth of the Bay of Fundy into the Gulf of Maine. It's a model of quiet island life! Accessible only by ferry (free) from Grand Manan, even the White Head children must be ferried to their larger neighbor for schooling. Visitors may find that conversation with outsiders is valued here.
For artists and non-artists, alike, the island offers pleasing views, and is home to Sandy Cove Light, which resides at the island's southernmost tip.
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Birds | ||
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Sea Watch Tours Sea Watch Tours have offered successful tours since 1969. We cater to many Canadian and United States naturalist and wildlife organizations as well as to the private individual. Your enjoyment and satisfaction is our priority. Tour 1 -- Machias Seal Island to view puffins. Tour 2 -- Whale watching/pelagic birding off the coast of Grand Manan. We have knowledgeable guides and offer WHALES GUARANTEED OR NO CHARGE! |
P.O. Box 505 Seal Cove Grand Manan, NB E5G 4M5 CANADA 506-662-8552 Toll Free from U.S. & Canada: 1-877-662-8552 |
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Whales-n-Sails Adventures We use clean, quiet wind power to sail you to see the rarest large animal on earth, the North Atlantic Right Whale. Grand Manan Island, centred in the mouth of the Bay of Fundy, is the summer home for approximately 75 to 100 of these rare animals, and we specialize in showing them to you. From the decks of our 60-ft. sailing yacht, you will have the best view in the Bay of Fundy. You can also expect to see Finback Whales, Humpback Whales, Basking Sharks, Seals, and a great variety of Sea Birds. Over 100 whales make Grand Manan their home each summer. It's where serious whale watchers come to see whales, and lots of them! We're just a 5 minute walk left of the Grand Manan ferry landing. Whales-n-Sails Adventures -- Come "feel the wind...see the whales" on Grand Manan Island--the RIGHT place to see WHALES! |
North Head Fishermen's Wharf, PO Box 1301 North Head Grand Manan, NB E5G 4M9 CANADA 506-662-1999 Toll Free from U.S. & Canada: (888) 994-4044 Fax: 506-662-8435 |
Boat Excursions & Charters | ||
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Sea Watch Tours Sea Watch Tours have offered successful tours since 1969. We cater to many Canadian and United States naturalist and wildlife organizations as well as to the private individual. Your enjoyment and satisfaction is our priority. Tour 1 -- Machias Seal Island to view puffins. Tour 2 -- Whale watching/pelagic birding off the coast of Grand Manan. We have knowledgeable guides and offer WHALES GUARANTEED OR NO CHARGE! |
P.O. Box 505 Seal Cove Grand Manan, NB E5G 4M5 CANADA 506-662-8552 Toll Free from U.S. & Canada: 1-877-662-8552 |
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Whales-n-Sails Adventures We use clean, quiet wind power to sail you to see the rarest large animal on earth, the North Atlantic Right Whale. Grand Manan Island, centred in the mouth of the Bay of Fundy, is the summer home for approximately 75 to 100 of these rare animals, and we specialize in showing them to you. From the decks of our 60-ft. sailing yacht, you will have the best view in the Bay of Fundy. You can also expect to see Finback Whales, Humpback Whales, Basking Sharks, Seals, and a great variety of Sea Birds. Over 100 whales make Grand Manan their home each summer. It's where serious whale watchers come to see whales, and lots of them! We're just a 5 minute walk left of the Grand Manan ferry landing. Whales-n-Sails Adventures -- Come "feel the wind...see the whales" on Grand Manan Island--the RIGHT place to see WHALES! |
North Head Fishermen's Wharf, PO Box 1301 North Head Grand Manan, NB E5G 4M9 CANADA 506-662-1999 Toll Free from U.S. & Canada: (888) 994-4044 Fax: 506-662-8435 |
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Pebble Beach Tent & Picnic Area John F Morse & Son General Store Camp on beautiful, secluded White Head Island! Five wooden tent platforms in wooded area by the sea. Beautiful sunrises from your tent! Look across Bay of Fundy to Nova Scotia shore! Watch & hear whales (seasonal) from campground! Circumnavigate the island--one -day hike, or boat excursion. Good birding! Water, electricity, picnic tables, fire grill available. General merchandise, gas, souvenirs, steamed hotdogs. |
White Head Island Grand Manan, NB E0G 3K0 CANADA 506-662-8228 (Store); (506)662-8677 (Pebble Beach) Fax: 506-662-8228 |
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Cow-Mon In All local crafts. Tee Shirts, Sweatshirts, Homemade Soaps & Candles, Hand-knit Sweaters, Puzzles, Games, Toys, and more! Next to the North Head ferry terminal. May-December, 7 days a week. |
North Head Grand Manan, NB E0G 2M0 CANADA 506-662-3247 |
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Food--Groceries | ||
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Pebble Beach Tent & Picnic Area John F Morse & Son General Store Camp on beautiful, secluded White Head Island! Five wooden tent platforms in wooded area by the sea. Beautiful sunrises from your tent! Look across Bay of Fundy to Nova Scotia shore! Watch & hear whales (seasonal) from campground! Circumnavigate the island--one -day hike, or boat excursion. Good birding! Water, electricity, picnic tables, fire grill available. General merchandise, gas, souvenirs, steamed hotdogs. |
White Head Island Grand Manan, NB E0G 3K0 CANADA 506-662-8228 (Store); (506)662-8677 (Pebble Beach) Fax: 506-662-8228 |
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Inn at Whale Cove Cottages Serving Rusticators since 1910!
Located 1/2 mile up the Whistle Road in the village of North Head. A tree-lined lane leads you to the Inn and Cottages overlooking Whale Cove and Fish Head. Originally built in 1816, the Main House has been renovated to combine the rustic charm of hand-hewn beams and the modern conveniences of private baths and electric heat. Antique Shaker furniture, an extensive library, and a large fireplace grace the shared livingroom. The Inn includes three bedrooms--named after long-time Whale Cove Guests (Miss Eloise Derby's Room, Miss Henrietta Quigley's Room, and Sally's Attic)--with private bath and private entrance, and offer water accommodations from two to three guests in each. Our Cottages Dining at the Inn Cove Cuisine--Gourmet Food Shop & Catering: |
Whistle Rd. North Head Grand Manan, NB E0G 2M0 CANADA 506-662-3181 |
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Inn at Whale Cove Cottages Serving Rusticators since 1910!
Located 1/2 mile up the Whistle Road in the village of North Head. A tree-lined lane leads you to the Inn and Cottages overlooking Whale Cove and Fish Head. Originally built in 1816, the Main House has been renovated to combine the rustic charm of hand-hewn beams and the modern conveniences of private baths and electric heat. Antique Shaker furniture, an extensive library, and a large fireplace grace the shared livingroom. The Inn includes three bedrooms--named after long-time Whale Cove Guests (Miss Eloise Derby's Room, Miss Henrietta Quigley's Room, and Sally's Attic)--with private bath and private entrance, and offer water accommodations from two to three guests in each. Our Cottages Dining at the Inn Cove Cuisine--Gourmet Food Shop & Catering: |
Whistle Rd. North Head Grand Manan, NB E0G 2M0 CANADA 506-662-3181 |
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Shorecrest Lodge The Shorecrest Lodge, located on Grand Manan, is a haven for naturalists worldwide. Our guests enjoy whale watching, bird watching, nature hikes, as well as a number of other outdoor activities. Dine in our restaurant, enjoying our premier selection of local seafood entrées. We do our best to make your stay on Grand Manan a memorable one! |
P.O. Box 88 North Head Grand Manan, NB E0G 2M0 CANADA 506-662-3216 Fax: 506-662-3507 |
Food--Restaurants--Wine & Spirits | ||
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Shorecrest Lodge The Shorecrest Lodge, located on Grand Manan, is a haven for naturalists worldwide. Our guests enjoy whale watching, bird watching, nature hikes, as well as a number of other outdoor activities. Dine in our restaurant, enjoying our premier selection of local seafood entrées. We do our best to make your stay on Grand Manan a memorable one! |
P.O. Box 88 North Head Grand Manan, NB E0G 2M0 CANADA 506-662-3216 Fax: 506-662-3507 |
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Lodgings--B&Bs | ||
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Inn at Whale Cove Cottages Serving Rusticators since 1910!
Located 1/2 mile up the Whistle Road in the village of North Head. A tree-lined lane leads you to the Inn and Cottages overlooking Whale Cove and Fish Head. Originally built in 1816, the Main House has been renovated to combine the rustic charm of hand-hewn beams and the modern conveniences of private baths and electric heat. Antique Shaker furniture, an extensive library, and a large fireplace grace the shared livingroom. The Inn includes three bedrooms--named after long-time Whale Cove Guests (Miss Eloise Derby's Room, Miss Henrietta Quigley's Room, and Sally's Attic)--with private bath and private entrance, and offer water accommodations from two to three guests in each. Our Cottages Dining at the Inn Cove Cuisine--Gourmet Food Shop & Catering: |
Whistle Rd. North Head Grand Manan, NB E0G 2M0 CANADA 506-662-3181 |
Lodgings--Inns | ||
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Inn at Whale Cove Cottages Serving Rusticators since 1910!
Located 1/2 mile up the Whistle Road in the village of North Head. A tree-lined lane leads you to the Inn and Cottages overlooking Whale Cove and Fish Head. Originally built in 1816, the Main House has been renovated to combine the rustic charm of hand-hewn beams and the modern conveniences of private baths and electric heat. Antique Shaker furniture, an extensive library, and a large fireplace grace the shared livingroom. The Inn includes three bedrooms--named after long-time Whale Cove Guests (Miss Eloise Derby's Room, Miss Henrietta Quigley's Room, and Sally's Attic)--with private bath and private entrance, and offer water accommodations from two to three guests in each. Our Cottages Dining at the Inn Cove Cuisine--Gourmet Food Shop & Catering: |
Whistle Rd. North Head Grand Manan, NB E0G 2M0 CANADA 506-662-3181 |
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Shorecrest Lodge The Shorecrest Lodge, located on Grand Manan, is a haven for naturalists worldwide. Our guests enjoy whale watching, bird watching, nature hikes, as well as a number of other outdoor activities. Dine in our restaurant, enjoying our premier selection of local seafood entrées. We do our best to make your stay on Grand Manan a memorable one! |
P.O. Box 88 North Head Grand Manan, NB E0G 2M0 CANADA 506-662-3216 Fax: 506-662-3507 |
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Royal LePage Summit Real Estate Services Ltd. Specializing in Shorefront and Waterview Properties. On-island, dedicated, full-time service. |
P.O. Box 16 Castalia Grand Manan, NB E0G 1L0 CANADA 506-662-8327 Cellular: (506)662-5456 |
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Sea Watch Tours Sea Watch Tours have offered successful tours since 1969. We cater to many Canadian and United States naturalist and wildlife organizations as well as to the private individual. Your enjoyment and satisfaction is our priority. Tour 1 -- Machias Seal Island to view puffins. Tour 2 -- Whale watching/pelagic birding off the coast of Grand Manan. We have knowledgeable guides and offer WHALES GUARANTEED OR NO CHARGE! |
P.O. Box 505 Seal Cove Grand Manan, NB E5G 4M5 CANADA 506-662-8552 Toll Free from U.S. & Canada: 1-877-662-8552 |
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Whales-n-Sails Adventures We use clean, quiet wind power to sail you to see the rarest large animal on earth, the North Atlantic Right Whale. Grand Manan Island, centred in the mouth of the Bay of Fundy, is the summer home for approximately 75 to 100 of these rare animals, and we specialize in showing them to you. From the decks of our 60-ft. sailing yacht, you will have the best view in the Bay of Fundy. You can also expect to see Finback Whales, Humpback Whales, Basking Sharks, Seals, and a great variety of Sea Birds. Over 100 whales make Grand Manan their home each summer. It's where serious whale watchers come to see whales, and lots of them! We're just a 5 minute walk left of the Grand Manan ferry landing. Whales-n-Sails Adventures -- Come "feel the wind...see the whales" on Grand Manan Island--the RIGHT place to see WHALES! |
North Head Fishermen's Wharf, PO Box 1301 North Head Grand Manan, NB E5G 4M9 CANADA 506-662-1999 Toll Free from U.S. & Canada: (888) 994-4044 Fax: 506-662-8435 |
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