In Saint Pierre and Miquelon, the tap water is not reliably safe. Using bottled or filtered water is strongly advised.
Saint Pierre and Miquelon’s isolated location and older infrastructure mean that water safety is not always consistent. Storage tanks and pipes may introduce bacteria or sediment.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Verified through CDC and WHO data, along with reports from municipal water services.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
We’ve taken a close look at the most trusted travel filter bottles so you can avoid waterborne illnesses, cut down on single-use plastic, and skip the bottled water habit. These aren’t products we sell, just ones we genuinely recommend based on research and traveler experiences—you’ll find them listed below.
Health Risks for Travelers
Although residents may regularly consume the tap water without issues, travelers are often more susceptible to waterborne diseases due to differences in immunity and water treatment protocols. Contaminants that may be harmless to locals can cause digestive problems for foreign visitors.
Common health concerns include:
- Traveler’s diarrhea from unfamiliar bacteria like E. coli
- Parasites such as Giardia or Cryptosporidium, especially in untreated water sources
- Viral infections including hepatitis A and norovirus, often linked to poor sanitation
- Exposure to heavy metals or chemical pollutants in areas with inadequate water regulation
Risks are elevated in:
- Rural areas lacking centralized water treatment
- Flood-prone regions with compromised infrastructure
- Older buildings with neglected rooftop tanks or corroded plumbing
Even if the water appears clear, it may contain microbial or chemical contaminants that can lead to short-term gastrointestinal illness or more serious long-term health effects.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Saint Pierre and Miquelon, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Freshwater is limited in Saint Pierre and Miquelon. Depending on the location, the islands rely on surface water, groundwater, and seawater desalination. Treatment systems like reverse osmosis and UV sterilization are used to ensure safe drinking water.
FAQs About Tap Water in Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
If the tap water isn’t safe to drink, it’s also best not to use it for brushing your teeth—use bottled water instead.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
As long as you don’t swallow it, using tap water to wash your face is unlikely to cause problems.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
Ask if the ice is made from bottled or treated water—if not, it’s safer to go without.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Even if the water isn’t drinkable, it’s usually fine for washing your body.
If you’re looking to be on the safe side—or just want to be kind to your skin and hair while you’re abroad—a travel-friendly shower filter can be a smart add-on. You can usually screw it right onto the showerhead in just a minute. Just make sure the connection point is exposed. Some showers are built into the wall, and in that case, a filter won’t do much good. Check the latest price here.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
It’s safer to rinse produce with bottled or filtered water, especially if you plan to eat it raw.
Is bottled water expensive in Saint Pierre and Miquelon?
You can typically find bottled water at local shops or hotels without spending much.
Saint Pierre and Miquelon is typically visited from Canada, but some travelers also include Greenland or Iceland as part of a northern Atlantic route—worth comparing water conditions between stops.