Marine Atlantic Names Charter Vessel

Marine Atlantic has announced the name of its newest charter vessel, Île Rouge, recognizing the province’s French heritage and Francophone community.

The Crown corporation said the name was chosen following consultation with the Fédération des francophones de Terre-Neuve et du Labrador, highlighting its cultural and historical significance to Francophone and Acadian residents.

Île Rouge refers to a small island located off the Port-au-Port Peninsula, across from La Grand’Terre, and is tied to the history of the French cod fishery along Newfoundland’s French Shore between 1714 and 1904. Marine Atlantic says the name honours both that legacy and the modern-day Franco-Newfoundlander community.

The vessel will have capacity for approximately 921 passengers and will include 150 cabins, 48 of which will be pet-friendly. Amenities on board are set to include dining options, lounges, a children’s play area, and a kennel for pets.

The ship is currently undergoing modifications in Greece, with Marine Atlantic expecting to take possession by the end of May. Once it arrives in Canada, additional preparations — including crew familiarization and Canadian flagging — will take place before it enters service.