Early Years 1920s-1950
The history of the Port of Corner Brook is rich and deeply intertwined with the development of the local community. The construction of the pulp and paper mill in 1925 marked a significant milestone, leading to increased shipping activities. The early 1920s saw vessels like Clarke Steamship Co. Ltd.’s Gaspésia calling on the port. During these years, passenger cruises started, with Corner Brook becoming a popular destination for tourists exploring the beautiful Bay of Islands.
World War II highlighted the port’s strategic importance, serving industry and military needs. In 1946, Western Terminals Ltd. took over operating the wharves and waterfront premises, ensuring the port remained open for all shipping companies. The late 1940s brought further expansion, including extended pier and warehouse facilities and a ship-rail service agreement between Canadian National Railway and Clarke Steamship Co.
Growth and Expansion (1950-2000)
The 1950s saw the construction of a cement plant and a gypsum plant, diversifying the cargo types shipped through the port. The oldest part of the current wharf was built in 1959, coinciding with the first regular cruise call in 20 years by Sun Line’s Stella Maris. The 1970s and 1980s were marked by further expansions, including the opening of a new sideloading terminal in 1970 and the first port call by the cruise ship Alexander Pushkin in 1976.
In 1982, Newfoundland Steamships introduced full container service, supported by a new 220-ton crane. Though competition from Terra Transport ended this service later that year, the port rebounded in 1988 with ASL Atlantic Searoute and Atlantic Container Express reinstating shipping calls. The late 1980s saw increased activity due to the demise of the Newfoundland Railway and the construction of a new wharf section in 1989.
Modernization 2000-Present
The establishment of the Corner Brook Port Corporation (CBPC) on February 28, 2001, was a turning point, officially taking over the port on November 19, 2004. This transition allowed for greater regional focus and development opportunities. Dredging in 2004 accommodated larger vessels, and CBPC joined the Atlantic Canada Cruise Association and Cruise Newfoundland & Labrador in 2005 to boost cruise ship activity.
In 2006, CBPC acquired additional land to expand industrial activities, and by 2008, Oceanex had begun a second weekly service to the port. The completion of the R.A. Pollet Building in 2009 provided a new home for CBPC staff. Between 2010 and 2015, Corner Brook served as the alternative port of call for the ferry service from Blanc Sablon, QC, during periods of significant ice build-up. Though Oceanex ceased regular service in 2011, the port continued to develop. In 2012, a floating dock was installed to accommodate more cruise ships.
The port’s cruise business has grown significantly, leading to the establishment of the Cruise Ambassador Program in 2017. Major investments in 2019 included a 125-tonne eco-efficient mobile harbour crane, two reach stackers, and a warehouse. The service with Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) began in 2020, providing bi-weekly and later weekly international shipping services.
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which cancelled the 2020 and 2021 cruise season, the new international container service was launched on time with little disruption due to the pandemic. The introduction of the MSC container service allowed businesses to benefit from an efficient and timely shipping solution with competitive pricing, ultimately leading to the export of over 8,000 containers in 2023.
Cruise activities resumed in 2022 with enhanced facilities at the port, including a new gangway, tender dock, and seven market sheds. The return of cruise ships led to a significant increase in calls, with a record 36 calls expected in 2024.
The rise in cruise and cargo traffic created a need for more staff to support continued growth and meet the region’s demands. The port’s expansion in 2023 and 2024 included hiring new employees to manage the increasing activity.
In 2024, the Corner Brook Port Corporation (CBPC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CWP Global, marking the beginning of a collaborative effort to examine the potential of Project Gwinya. This transformative initiative aims to promote economic growth and environmental sustainability in the region. Project Gwinya will explore the potential for a green hydrogen hub, including a hot briquetted iron (HBI) plant, at the Port of Corner Brook, positioning the port as a pivotal player in the green energy sector and ensuring its continued relevance and growth in the future.