Petite Forte

Marine Atlantic, its predecessor CN Marine, and pre-confederation Newfoundland coastal boats have a strong and proud history serving the people of Atlantic Canada through ferry terminals, passenger vessels and rail service.

In this week’s blog posting we highlight the Petite Forte, a Newfoundland and Labrador coastal vessel that served from 1961-1983.

Named after the southern Newfoundland community of the same name, the Petite Forte measured 188 feet, weighed 1,135 tonnes and had the ability to carry up to 98 passengers per crossing. Used primarily as a coastal vessel to transport people, supplies and freight, the vessel was a well-known fixture in coastal communities for over 20 years. In 1983, the vessel was donated to Mercy Ships, an organization that provides free medical care and supplies to those in need around the world where it served a major role in delivering health care services for 19 years.