Proud of our History - 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.

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.

As always, we welcome your photos for posting in a future blog. Please email your photos to [email protected] including any facts such as the date and location.

In next week’s blog posting we highlight the SS Cabot Strait which serviced the Port aux Basques-North Sydney crossing and coastal Newfoundland and Labrador communities between 1947 and 1974.