The Gulf Coast community is bidding farewell to a trailblazer of the maritime and tourism industry in South Mississippi on Sunday. The impact this individual had on these industries will not be forgotten.
After the passing of his father Peter Skrmetta Sr. in 1963, Peter Matthew Skrmetta, commonly known as “Captain Pete,” assumed control of his family’s island ferry business.
Pan Isles Inc. has been a prominent business in South Mississippi since the 1920s. Captain Pete took over the business and started offering excursions to Ship Island, which has become a well-known attraction in the area.
In 1969, Hurricane Camille wreaked havoc on the Coast, causing extensive damage to the island and wiping out everything in its path. To save the beloved tourist spot, the captain had to mortgage everything he owned. Notably, Skrmetta served as a Marine during the Korean War, and after returning home, he partnered with the American Legion to expand his family’s ferry business into Gulfport.
