Our History

Blog posts on Marine Atlantic ferries throughout history.

Cargo shipyard being built

The Newfoundland Railway

This essential railway was vital to the establishment of the crossing between Port aux Basques and North Sydney in 1898. It served as the only practical way to ship goods and people through Newfoundland.
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A man standing in front of the SS Dundee

The SS Dundee

A lifeline for coastal residents in need of vital supplies like food, fuel, and clothing, the SS Dundee served Newfoundland from 1900 to 1919.
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Runner sailing

The MV Marine Runner

Faster than any of the vessels that previously serviced remote communities along the south coast of Newfoundland, this ship was nicknamed the “Tijuana Taxi” or “Seagoing Bus” for its speed.
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blue life preserver ring on parchment paper textured background

Proud of our History - The Grand Manan Ferry Service

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Image: MV Hopedale

MV Hopedale

Serving Newfoundland and Labrador’s coastal communities from 1960 to 1984, this ship was originally designed to upgrade and strengthen the new province’s ferry service following Confederation.
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aerial view of st. anthony

St. Anthony, NL

Located at the tip of Newfoundland’s northern peninsula, this hearty community has been an important gateway for hundreds of years and recognized by historical figures like Jacques Cartier.
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Image of the SS Scotia II

The SS Scotia II

For over 50 years, this ship transported freight and passengers across the Strait of Canso and Northumberland Strait. It was moved to PEI service when the Canso Causeway opened in 1955.
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Marine Atlantic Logo

Proud of our History - The SS Glencoe

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Image of the Lucy Maud Montgomery

The MV Lucy Maud Montgomery

Named in honour of the creator of Anne of Green Gables book series, this vessel serviced the Cape Tormentine-Borden and Port aux Basques–North Sydney crossings between 1969 and 1975.
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Proud of our History - The tugboat Taskall

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the ss fife sailing away from shore

The SS Fife

Sadly shipwrecked in 1900, this vessel was responsible for serving communities in western Newfoundland, the Strait of Belle Isle, and southern Labrador during its few short months of service.
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