Belle Isle

Belle Isle, strait, and granite island of the same name in the strait, between the coasts of southeastern Labrador and northern Newfoundland Island. The strait, which connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Gulf of St. Lawrence, is 145 km (90 mi) long and 16 km (10 mi) wide at its narrowest point. Although much used by transatlantic vessels from June until the end of November, floating ice and fog make navigation difficult in all seasons. The island, located at the Atlantic entrance to the strait, rises 200 m (700 ft) above sea level. It lies 24 km (15 mi) from either coast and has a lighthouse at its southern end. Area of the island, 39 sq km (15 sq mi).