© 2001 Robert A. Mackall
Harrington Harbor was, without question, one of the most interesting stops on our trip. Simply consider the fact that there are no roads and, therefore, no automotive vehicles. In place of roads there are broad wooden sidewalks which link everything. In the place of autos; ATVs and bicycles. Necessity met in simple harmony.Harrington Harbor is not on the mainland of Canada. It is a sheltered island harbor town surrounded by other islands. The descendents of transplanted Newfoundlanders reside here, 285 of them. As we awaken and stir to the forward deck it is clearly cooler here. An overcast sky has seen to that. And again we thread the hole between island needles to reach port. There is beauty here; but not the kind poetry is written about. This is the setting of a novel.
After breakfast we are docked in port and let ashore to wander and explore; either independently or in small groups. The photographers go off on their own in search of that picture that has not been taken. The naturalists are inspecting with Marie-Odile the tiny flora. Others investigate every nook and cranny of the village. Before leaving ship, I get the video camera out and record about 5 minutes of what I believe to be a colony of seals on an outer island. With binoculars I realize that I've just filmed the town dump.
Stepping off the boardwalk to climb the tallest hill, we discover the tundra/peat fragility of the ground. So soft and giving to the foot but with a crunching protest of sound. We are amazed at the determination of tiny flowers that bloom everywhere. And at the top of the hill we are rewarded with a sweeping view of the village and surrounding small islands. As we explore the village the folks we meet all speak with a rich nautical Newfoundland brough. Although there is not an abundance of commercial activity here we did find a fish house, bank, general store and church. Later we found the cemetery and elementary school. We bought hand painted wood art from 14 year old Willard Jones at his one man "craft shop" on a bench along a walkway.More pictures of Harrington HarborWe wandered slowly in no particular hurry back to the ship for lunch. Afterwards Katie went back ashore for another ramble while I nap. As is apparent, plenty of time is allowed in port to satisfy everyone's needs. There is no need to rush. This is one of the most appealing features of L'Écho Des Mers.
