Canadian Sailings Headline News

$9.3-million project to double Port of Montreal’s electrical capacity

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:49:26 -0500

The Port of Montreal is doubling its electrical capacity. An estimated $9.3 million will be spent to improve electrical facilities, control equipment and network management, thereby increasing access point capacity along Hydro-Québec’s network in the port.

Two new partners for Port of Sept-Îles

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:48:50 -0500

The Port of Sept-Îles said it has signed rate agreements with Labrador Iron Mines Limited and New Millennium Capital Corp., clearing the way for direct-shipping iron ore to the port’s Pointe-Noire facilities.

Seaway to open March 25

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:00:38 -0500

The St. Lawrence Seaway has announced that the 2010 navigation season will begin on March 25 at 8 a.m. for both the Montreal-Lake Ontario section of the waterway and the Welland Canal.

New York appellate court upholds state’s demand for offshore ballast-water exchange

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 10:03:47 -0500

A New York appeals court has upheld the state’s regulations obliging ships to replace their ballast water at least 50 nautical miles (92.6 kilometres) offshore before entering its waters.

Ontario region investigating short-sea shipping opportunities

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 10:03:02 -0500

The Regional Municipality of Durham is undertaking a study to assess the potential for marine transportation via the Port of Oshawa to improve the movement of goods to and from the region. A public consultation meeting will be held in Oshawa on Feb. 22 to present the results of the study and to solicit feedback from regional shippers and other stakeholders.

Irving cancels world-class port development in Saint John

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:01:51 -0500

Last summer, Irving Oil canned its big plans for a second refinery in Saint John. Then, on Feb. 2, the groundhog must have seen a long shadow when the company announced it was halting its elaborate ‘World Headquarters’ on a large port terminal.

Green Marine names executive director

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 11:32:47 -0500

The board of directors of Green Marine Management Corporation has announced the appointment of David Bolduc to the position of executive director. Mr. Bolduc had been working as the group’s project co-ordinator.

New bulk business for Logistec USA

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:12:33 -0500

Logistec USA Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Montreal-based Logistec Corporation, said it has entered into a long-term agreement with HRK Holdings, LLC for the handling of fertilizers and other bulk materials in Port Manatee, Fla.

Prince Rupert posts highest volume throughput in 12 years

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 11:40:54 -0500

The Port of Prince Rupert sailed safely through the global economic downturn, recording in 2009 its highest volume throughput in the past 12 years. The port handled 12.2 million tonnes of cargo last year, up 15 per cent over 2008.

Grain traffic increase helps Trois-Rivières stay on par in 2009

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 16:16:36 -0500

The Port of Trois-Rivières escaped the worst of the economic downturn and kept its 2009 cargo numbers on par with those of the previous year, according to preliminary statistics from the Trois-Rivières Port Authority.

Recession takes bite out of Port of Quebec traffic

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:53:26 -0500

The Port of Quebec saw its total traffic decrease by about 21 per cent to approximately 21 million tonnes in 2009, according to preliminary statistics from the Quebec Port Authority. The port had handled a record 27.2 million tonnes of cargo in 2008.

Halifax container cargo slips 11 per cent in 2009

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:52:41 -0500

Containerized cargo traffic through the Port of Halifax dropped 11 per cent in 2009, according to yearend statistics released by the Halifax Port Authority. The decrease was not as dramatic as anticipated thanks to a strong fourth quarter.

Seaway volume in 2009 could be record low

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 14:52:55 -0500

The St. Lawrence Seaway handled an estimated 30.5 million tonnes of cargo in 2009, perhaps the lowest volume ever for the waterway, the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation said. Volume was down 25 per cent from the 40.8 million tonnes of cargo moved in 2008.

Port of Montreal box traffic down 14 per cent in 2009

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 14:11:18 -0500

Container traffic through the Port of Montreal was down about 14 per cent in 2009 from the previous year, according to preliminary statistics from the Montreal Port Authority.

Vancouver container traffic down 15 per cent through November

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:38:42 -0500

Container traffic through Port Metro Vancouver for the 11 months ended Nov. 30 was down 15 per cent at 1.97 million TEUs.

Halifax Shipyard to refit HMCS Preserver

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:26:34 -0500

Irving Shipbuilding Inc. has been awarded a contract worth nearly $45 million to carry out a refit of the navy supply vessel HMCS Preserver.

Armed icebreaker idea resurfaces

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 14:22:31 -0500

It’s back to armed icebreakers in the Arctic. After his 2006 election victory, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said his government wanted the Canadian Coast Guard to have new ships in the Arctic that could do more than punch through ice.

Quebec to host international hydrographic conference

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 15:50:53 -0500

The Canadian Hydrographic Association has announced that the 2010 Canadian Hydrographic Conference will be held at the Quebec City Convention Centre from June 21 to 23.

Ottawa appoints mediator in CN dispute

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 11:32:11 -0500

Veteran mediator Andrew Sims has been appointed as arbitrator in the contract negotiations between CN and its 1,700 locomotive engineers.

Bay Ferries pulls plug on Nova Scotia-Maine service

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:00:08 -0500

Bay Ferries Ltd. has pulled the plug on its high-speed ferry service between Yarmouth, N.S., and the two Maine ports of Portland and Bar Harbor.

First phase of rail service review near completion

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 14:37:14 -0500

The first stage of a railway service review is essentially complete but cannot be released until Transport Minister John Baird gives his blessing, says the head of the assessment.

Delmar International acquires Federated Customs Brokers

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:06:17 -0500

Delmar International Inc., a wholly owned Canadian logistics service provider with subsidiaries in the United States and Asia, said it has acquired The Federated Group of companies including Federated Customs Brokers Limited, Federated Freight Services Limited, J.D. O’Hearn & Company Limited and Federated International, Inc.

Senate report calls for foreign vessels entering Canadian Arctic waters to register with authorities

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:46:05 -0500

All foreign vessels entering Canadian Arctic waters should be required to report to NORDREG – the Arctic Canada Traffic System – regardless of size or tonnage, says a report by the standing Senate committee on fisheries and oceans. Currently, foreign vessels transiting the Northwest Passage have no obligation to report to any Canadian authority, as long as they do not land.

Arbitrator to decide wage, benefits issues for CN locomotive engineers

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:44:37 -0500

CN said unresolved wage and benefits issues for 1,700 of its locomotive engineers in Canada will be submitted to binding arbitration after renewed negotiations between the company and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) ended Dec. 12 without a settlement.

West Coast shipbuilders form alliance

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 10:18:37 -0500

Shipbuilders located on Canada’s West Coast met on Nov. 27 to form an unprecedented alliance to provide a unified voice to all levels of government in an effort to promote British Columbia’s shipbuilding industry.

Mixed reviews for Prairie grain transportation

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:28:38 -0500

Prairie grain transportation has never worked better than during the past six months but grain companies are far from satisfied with the service they get from the railways, an industry symposium heard in late November.

Halifax signs accord with Vietnamese container port

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 15:45:18 -0500

The Port of Halifax signed a memorandum of understanding with the Port of Haiphong, Vietnam, on Dec. 3. Karen Oldfield, president and CEO of the Halifax Port Authority, was visiting the Port of Haiphong as part of an Atlantic Gateway trade mission to Vietnam.

Shiprider program reaches the Commons

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:25:01 -0500

Legislation to implement the Shiprider marine security program was finally introduced by the Harper government on Nov 27.

Halifax Shipyard to refit HMCS Iroquois

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 11:56:58 -0500

Irving Shipbuilding Inc. has been awarded a federal contract to carry out the refit of HMCS Iroquois.

Washington Marine Group cuts 20% of shore staff

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 09:47:10 -0500

The axing of 20 per cent of the shore staff of North Vancouver-based Washington Marine Group, announced Nov. 18 by CEO Jonathan Whitworth, is believed to affect 60 employees, though the company is not confirming numbers.

CN strike ends before Parliament can act

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:03:15 -0500

With Parliament prepared to order an end to a five-day-old strike, CN and its 1,700 locomotive engineers quickly reached a settlement yesterday.

CN makes counter-offer to engineers

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:38:37 -0500

CN made a new offer late yesterday to get its striking locomotive engineers back to work. The union hasn’t yet responded but it might not matter as the federal government intends to push back-to-work legislation through the Commons today.

CN back-to-work legislation waiting for Parliamentary time

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:51:56 -0500

It may be a few days before federal legislation to end the CN engineers’ strike gets through Parliament.

Quebec port boss to carry Olympic flame

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 10:28:22 -0500

Ross Gaudreault, president and CEO of the Quebec Port Authority, will be officially joining the Olympic family for the 21st Olympic Winter Games when at 6:06 p.m. on Dec. 3 he becomes one of the 12,000 Canadian torchbearers to carry the Olympic flame.

Ottawa to introduce legislation to end CN strike

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:23:51 -0500

Labour Minister Rona Ambrose was to introduce legislation today to order a return to work by CN’s 1,700 engineers and send their contract dispute to binding arbitration.

Washington Marine Group acquires CME’s Victoria unit

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:59:23 -0500

The Washington Marine Group, of North Vancouver, announced Nov. 23 that it has acquired most of the assets of CME (Victoria) Ltd., the Vancouver Island unit of Canadian Maritime Engineering group (CME), of Dartmouth, N.S.

CN, union face off with strike looming

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:42:09 -0500

CN and Teamsters Canada officials huddled in Montreal on Nov. 27 with federal mediators trying to break an impasse on a new contract and avoid a nationwide strike by locomotive engineers.

Marine Atlantic changes date for drop-trailer fee increase

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:10:00 -0500

The trucking industry was given a one-month reprieve on new charges to use Marine Atlantic’s drop-trailer service.

Last of B.C. fast cats ships out to Abu Dhabi

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:37:10 -0500

The PacifiCat Explorer, the last of three “not-fit-for-purpose” British Columbia fast ferries to be exported to Abu Dhabi, sailed from Vancouver on Nov. 23 aboard the MV Swift of heavy-lift specialist Dockwise Shipping BV.

Melfi back in Halifax

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:45:01 -0500

After several months’ absence, Melfi Marine has decided to start sailing back into the Port of Halifax. The first vessel will arrive in late December.

Shipowners continue push for end to duty on imported vessels

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:36:00 -0500

The Shipbuilding Association of Canada is looking for a compromise with groups that want to encourage the federal Finance Department to implement its proposal to put an end to a 25-per-cent duty on imported ships.

Tyden Group acquires E.J. Brooks Combination of two brands in security-seals industry

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:32:28 -0500

Tyden Group Holdings Corporation, a portfolio company of Crimson Investment, has announced the acquisition of E.J. Brooks Company, a provider of security seals and metering related products.

Port of Saint John VP new CITT chair

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 11:45:37 -0500

CITT – the Canadian Institute of Traffic and Transportation – has elected Andrew Dixon, vice-president of marketing and business development for the Saint John Port Authority, as its chair of the board for 2009-10.

Groups look to revive Halifax-New England marine link

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:17:49 -0500

The return of a marine link between Halifax and New England remains a topical issue. The Halifax Port Authority is eager to get the connection started again and says it is in discussions with potential operators. And a Boston shipping agent believes the short-sea service can be revived and operate successfully.

Sydney channel deepening project moves forward

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:24:45 -0500

The project to deepen the entrance channel into Sydney Harbour is moving forward. The Sydney Marine Group and the Sydney Ports Corporation are seeking requests for proposals to dredge the 8.5-kilometre channel down to a depth of approximately 17 metres. 

Port of Churchill posts solid results

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:15:07 -0500

The shipping season through the Port of Churchill lasted for little more than two months this year but the Canadian Wheat Board managed to export 529,000 tonnes of western Canadian wheat through the facility.

Lunenburg Conference to focus on marine protected areas, integrated ocean enforcement

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:48:32 -0500

Marine protected areas in Canada hold the key to preserving a viable and healthy ocean ecosystem and Canadians need to think broadly when searching for cost-effective solutions for protecting the largest coastal resource on earth, say organizers of The Lunenberg Conference.

Government proposes to eliminate 25-per-cent import duty on certain ships

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:51:04 -0500

Canada’s shipbuilding industry can’t seem to change the federal government’s determination to eliminate a 25-per-cent import duty on foreign-built vessels.

Economic downturn not halting plans for box terminals at Melford, Sydney

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:59:53 -0500

The global recession may have slowed progress but there are no plans to halt scheduled new container terminal construction at two Nova Scotia ports.

Halifax box numbers show moderate improvement

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:10:06 -0400

Although the global economy remains sluggish and industry remains skeptical about the recession being over, container volumes over the Port of Halifax showed moderate improvement in the third quarter.

New executive for Company of Master Mariners

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:44:07 -0400

Capt. Jim Calvesbert, of Dartmouth, N.S., is the new national master of the Company of Master Mariners of Canada.

Logistec acquires Rideau Bulk Terminals

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:50:38 -0400

Logistec Corporation announced Oct. 26 that it has acquired, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Logistec Stevedoring Inc., 100 per cent of the issued and outstanding shares of Les Terminaux Rideau Bulk Terminals Inc.

CN orders 70 big locomotives

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 10:36:43 -0400

Canadian National Railway is ordering 70 new high-horsepower locomotives, splitting them evenly between suppliers GE Transportation and Electro-Motive Diesel.

Neptune Terminals to invest $37.5 million in Vancouver facility upgrades

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 10:43:16 -0400

Neptune Terminals has announced plans by its shareholder Canpotex to invest $37.5 million to upgrade the existing potash facility at its North Shore terminal in Port Metro Vancouver.

Senator creates stir with suggestion to move Halifax box cargo to Melford

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:04:52 -0400

A rookie Canadian senator has set the East Coast shipping community abuzz with his suggestion to close out container operations in the Port of Halifax and move everything to Melford at the Strait of Canso.

New executive for Atlantic trucking group

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 10:17:31 -0400

The Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association has a new chairman. Shane Esson, general manager of Keltic Transportation Inc., in Moncton, was elected to the position at the association’s annual meeting held recently at Brudenell, P.E.I.

Canada needs icebreakers ASAP: Shipping Federation

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:30:44 -0400

The federal government needs to provide as much as $1 billion in funding for the urgent replacement of the Canadian Coast Guard’s icebreakers, says Michael Broad, president of the Shipping Federation of Canada.

Nova Scotia to establish Atlantic Gateway secretariat

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:18:56 -0400

The Nova Scotia government will establish an Atlantic Gateway secretariat and advisory council to further strengthen its gateway initiative.

Trépanier to leave St. Lawrence Shipoperators

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:52:58 -0400

Nicole Trépanier, executive director of St. Lawrence Shipoperators, will be leaving the association in mid-November to become director of security and environment of the Société des traversiers du Québec.

World Shipper Group continues to press for maritime reform

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:42:37 -0400

The Global Shippers’ Forum wrapped up its annual two-day meeting in London on Sept. 15 and continued to press for other major trading nations to follow the lead of the European Union in abolishing liner conference exemptions from anti-trust laws.

Report examines logistics, supply chain management technology innovation in Canada

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:53:43 -0400

Supply Chain & Logistics Association Canada, Industry Canada and RBC Royal Bank are partnering to stage a series of breakfast briefings featuring the release of the first in-depth analysis on the use of advanced supply chain management/logistics/transportation technology in Canada.

Marine Atlantic increases fuel surcharge, looks to boost drop-trailer rates

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:51:08 -0400

Marine Atlantic Inc. is increasing some of its fees, which will not bode well for the cost of moving goods by truck between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Cole Group acquires Northern Arrow

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:37:17 -0400

The Cole Group, a Canadian-based global provider of customs brokerage, customs and commodity tax consulting, freight forwarding and warehousing solutions, said it has acquired Montreal-based Northern Arrow Freight Systems.

River terminal continues to set standard for container production in Port Metro Vancouver

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 10:47:15 -0400

Fraser Surrey Docks, in Port Metro Vancouver, continues to raise the bar by achieving unprecedented monthly average productions on its container vessels in 2009.

Fertilizer industry proposes processes for disputed rail rates

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 16:08:27 -0400

The fertilizer industry has proposed a Commercial Dispute Resolution model for dealing with quarrels with the railways over freight rates, says Roger Larson, president of the Canadian Fertilizer Institute.

Evergreen, China Shipping launch joint service between Asia, Pacific Northwest

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 14:05:44 -0400

Evergreen Line and China Shipping are launching a joint weekly service linking ports in Asia to locations in the American and Canadian Pacific Northwest.

Canada’s first LNG terminal officially commissioned in Saint John

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 11:33:12 -0400

More than 400 people gathered in a large tent at Canaport LNG on a sunny Sept. 24 to officially open Canada’s first liquefied natural gas terminal.

Kudos from shippers for rail review panel

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:08:56 -0400

The appointment of a three-member panel by the federal government to review complaints about railway service is receiving positive comments from shipper spokesmen.

Halifax Shipyard celebrates 120th anniversary

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 13:43:03 -0400

The Irving-owned Halifax Shipyard is 120 years old. The shipyard, which has been a vital industry fixture in Halifax Harbour since 1889, celebrated its birthday, complete with cheering workers and cake, on Sept. 21.

Ports of Hamilton, Halifax forge closer ties to promote short-sea shipping

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:16:36 -0400

Officials from the Hamilton Port Authority were in Halifax on Sept. 18 to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Halifax Port Authority aimed at advancing the development of short-sea shipping service opportunities.

Port of Windsor names new harbour master

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 15:33:10 -0400

David Cree, president and CEO of the Windsor Port Authority, has announced the appointment of Peter Berry to the position of harbour master.

Washington Marine Group appoints new CEO

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 15:14:10 -0400

The board of directors of Washington Marine Group has appointed Jonathan Whitworth as the company’s new CEO.

Atlantic Gateway Advisory Council gets federal funds

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:49:38 -0400

The Atlantic Gateway Advisory Council is getting federal funding to support its work over the next two years.

Ports group preparing for upturn in global goods movement

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:41:15 -0400

The Association of Canadian Port Authorities says it is working with governments and other stakeholders to ensure that Canada’s national port system is prepared to handle growing trade once the current economic downturn is over.

Halifax Shipyard to build coast guard mid-shore patrol vessels

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:36:55 -0400

The Canadian Coast Guard is getting some new ships. Irving Shipbuilding Inc. has been awarded a $194-million contract to build nine mid-shore patrol vessels at Halifax Shipyard.

Port of Montreal gets federal funds to improve truck access

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 15:31:46 -0400

The Government of Canada will provide the Montreal Port Authority with up to $9 million from the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund to build a common access portal for trucks.

Port Metro Vancouver announces new executive team

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:21:43 -0400

Port Metro Vancouver has announced a smaller and more streamlined executive team.

Nova Scotia railway seeks continuation of subsidy

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:28:25 -0400

Officials with the Cape Breton and Central Nova Scotia Railway plan to sit down with the province’s new NDP government to discuss the continuation of a provincial subsidy.

Seaway Marine Transport loans state-of-the-art engine to Georgian College

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 11:58:35 -0400

Seaway Marine Transport and its parent companies, Algoma Central Corporation and Upper Lakes Shipping, are working closely with Georgian College’s Great Lakes International Marine Training Centre to address the impending shortage of qualified marine engineers in Ontario and the Great Lakes marine industry.

Prince Rupert box traffic rallies

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:41:20 -0400

Container traffic at the Port of Prince Rupert’s Fairview Terminal recovered somewhat in the second quarter after a weak start to the year, increasing to 56,573 TEUs from 41,043 TEUS in the opening three months. But volume has yet to match the 79,106 TEUs handled in the closing three months of 2008, which had the best quarterly performance since the terminal opened in November 2007.

ECA proposal gets major green light

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:38:20 -0400

The U.S.-Canadian proposal for an Emission Control Area (ECA) is on its way to being adopted by the International Maritime Organization. The coastal regions where ships will have to reduce emissions by using fuel with progressively lower sulphur content and/or new engine technology will include France’s Saint-Pierre and Miquelon islands and eventually Mexico.

New direct service between Halifax, Vietnam

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:04:35 -0400

Importers and exporters using the Port of Halifax will now have a direct service to Vietnam. The new service will be part of the CKYH Alliance’s AWE-4 itinerary that will add Ho Chi Minh City to the port rotation.

Montreal container traffic down 18.4% in first half

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 10:54:00 -0400

The Port of Montreal handled 5.4 million tonnes of containerized cargo in the first half of 2009, down 18.4 per cent from the first six months of last year. The drop in full and empty containers was 14.6 per cent to 619,721 TEUs.

Appointments to two pilotage authorities

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 10:39:12 -0400

Transport Minister John Baird has announced the appointments of Michel Desrochers to the board of directors of the Great Lakes Pilotage Authority and Martin Karlsen, Alan Stockdale and Edward Anthony to the board of the Atlantic Pilotage Authority.

Halifax air cargo developer signs lease deal with FedEx

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 15:39:00 -0400

The developer of a new cargo facility at Halifax Stanfield International Airport has signed a 15-year lease agreement with FedEx.

New Brunswick’s energy hub still charged without second refinery

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 12:51:15 -0400

Economic shock waves are still being felt around the transportation and logistics community in New Brunswick following Irving Oil Ltd. and BP’s decision to shelve construction a second oil refinery in Saint John on the Bay of Fundy coast.

Vachon named Port of Montreal CEO

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:14:24 -0400

The board of directors of the Montreal Port Authority has appointed Sylvie Vachon to the position of president and CEO, chairman Michel Lessard announced today. Ms. Vachon has been the port authority’s vice-president of administration and human resources since 1997 and acting president and CEO since March 17.

B.C.’s fast ferries sold

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:51:33 -0400

British Columbia’s notorious trio of catamaran fast ferries has found a buyer in the Persian Gulf.

Oceanex selects SpecTec’s asset management software

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:38:38 -0400

Oceanex Inc., a provider of intermodal transportation services to Newfoundland from anywhere in North America, has selected SpecTec’s AMOS2 Enterprise Management Suite to manage its three vessels as well as its terminal in St. John’s.

International honour for former chair of importers/exporters group

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:29:15 -0400

Isabel Alexander, president of Phancorp Inc. and former chair of I.E.Canada – the Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters – has been honoured as a recipient of the 2009 International Women of Influence Award.

Port of Montreal to test green locomotive

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 13:57:33 -0400

Under Transport Canada’s Freight Technology Demonstration Fund, the Montreal Port Authority will receive a contribution of up to $500,000 towards a demonstration project involving a multiple-generator locomotive that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption. The project will take place in the port’s marshalling yard over a six-month period.

Hapag-Lloyd, OOCL to co-operate with MSC on North Atlantic service

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 11:53:07 -0400

St. Lawrence Co-ordinated Service members OOCL and Hapag-Lloyd say they will rationalize their jointly operated SLCS1 North Atlantic service/GEX1 with Mediterranean Shipping Co.’s Canadian Gateway service, known as the Montreal Express 1.

Shipping CEOs meet with transport minister

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:04:36 -0400

Executives from four Canadian-based shipping companies met in Ottawa on July 21 with John Baird, federal minister of transport, infrastructure and communities, and MP Mike Wallace, chair of the Marine Industry Caucus.

Fednav’s Umiak I graces Montreal waterfront

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 11:25:55 -0400

Montreal residents and tourists alike are witnessing an unfamiliar new ship tied up at Alexandra Pier No. 4 in the city’s Old Port area – the MV Umiak I. The modern Canadian-flagged ship, the most powerful icebreaking bulk carrier in the world, is in Montreal for routine maintenance.

New Nova Scotia government supports Atlantic Gateway initiative

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 14:44:42 -0400

Nova Scotia’s new government says it wholeheartedly supports the Atlantic Gateway initiative and will work closely with all those involved to see it becomes a booster of the provincial economy.

Halifax sees some positive signs despite 19.9% drop in box traffic in second quarter

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 14:26:20 -0400

While the Port of Halifax followed the global trend of declining cargo numbers in the second quarter of 2009, port stakeholders say they have seen some positive signs in the past few months.

U.S.-flag Great Lakes fleet off 37% in June

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 14:30:23 -0400

The recession again hammered the U.S.-flag Great Lakes fleet in June. Cargo movement totalled only 7.2 million net tons, down 37 per cent compared to June 2008, the Lake Carriers’ Association said.

Business as usual at Eimskip

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:18:56 -0400

It will be business as usual for Eimskip customers in Atlantic Canada as the Icelandic company goes through financial restructuring.

New LCL service through Halifax

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:18:18 -0400

Small businesses in Atlantic Canada will now be able to move small amounts of export cargo over the Port of Halifax to markets in Europe.

Air Canada gets OK for temperature-controlled units

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 14:58:44 -0400

Air Canada says it has become the first North American airline to be certified by Transport Canada for the carriage of temperature-controlled RKN e1 containers.

Ferries for sale on Craigslist

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 10:36:39 -0400

The selling agent for two Fraser River vehicle ferries is using Craigslist as one means of finding a buyer. The pair is out of a job following the opening of an $800-million bridge on June 16.

CIFFA announces new president

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:17:49 -0400

Following its 60th Annual General Meeting held recently in Montreal, the newly elected Board of Directors of the CIFFA announced the new president of the Board. Marc Bibeau, president of OEC, accepted the position for a two-year term. Robert Walker becomes the ex-officio past president and will continue to serve on the Board.

Marine Atlantic reinstates fuel surcharge

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 09:17:53 -0400

Marine Atlantic is bringing back fuel surcharges on its service between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador. Spokeswoman Tara Laing said the new fees will be effective July 17 and will add six per cent to the price of a one-way crossing.

Port Metro Vancouver terminal reaches record monthly production on container vessels

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:21:11 -0400

Fraser Surrey Docks at Port Metro Vancouver achieved a record monthly average production on its container vessels in May.

Airport VP new chair of Halifax Gateway Council

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:56:43 -0400

Joyce Carter, vice-president of finance and CFO for the Halifax International Airport Authority, has been elected the new chair of the Halifax Gateway Council, replacing Stephen Dempsey, president and CEO of the Greater Halifax Partnership.

New executive director for Atlantic Gateway advisory group

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:56:01 -0400

The Atlantic Gateway Advisory Council has a new executive director. David Oxner, who is the executive director of the Nova Scotia government’s gateway initiative, has been seconded for one year to run the advisory council.

Weekly Hamilton-Montreal container feeder service to begin July 3

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 12:54:55 -0400

The proponents of a new container feeder service between Montreal and Hamilton that will begin in early July say the initiative signals a new era of goods movements in Canada.

Halifax looks at shore power for ships

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 14:44:35 -0400

The Halifax Port Authority says it may take advantage of a federal government program that is designed to improve air quality around ports.

Stage set for shipowner shakeout

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 09:19:55 -0400

There’s a big shakeout coming in the ranks of international shipowners because of a collapse of freight rates and a glut of new ships, says Michael Broad, president of the Shipping Federation of Canada.

Seaway Marine and Industrial wins contract to refit coast guard vessel

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 14:04:32 -0400

The Canadian Coast Guard has awarded a $2.7-million contract to Seaway Marine and Industrial Inc. to refit the Griffon. The work will modernize the vessel and replace the buoy-handling crane and other equipment such as generators and air compressors.

Marine caucus goes deep

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 11:56:05 -0400

Five members of Parliament and marine industry representatives took depth of knowledge to new heights on a recent visit to a salt mine 525 metres below Lake Huron.

Montreal handles huge heavy-lift

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 11:55:39 -0400

Bickerdike Basin at the Port of Montreal was the theatre for a spectacular heavy-lift operation on June 2. A 784-tonne vacuum tower measuring 50.6 metres long, 16.8 metres wide and 13 metres in diameter was transshipped from a specialized vessel that arrived from Spain onto a barge that will bring it to Burns Harbor, Indiana, on the south shore of Lake Michigan.

Freight forwarders, logistics groups sign partnership deal

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:04:19 -0400

The Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association and the Canadian Professional Logistics Institute have signed a new Partnership in Professionalism agreement.

Idled box fleet shrinks

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:22:00 -0400

The fleet of idled container ships owned by ocean carriers is shrinking as unemployed vessels are brought back into service to handle the seasonal rise in cargo volumes.

Manufacturing index edges upward in U.S.

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:39:33 -0400

The Institute of Supply Management’s Manufacturing Index pushed up 2.7 percentage points in May, the fifth straight monthly improvement in a closely watched report that showed growing signs that the United States’ long-battered factory sector is scaling up orders and production.

Green Marine unveils shipping industry’s first environmental performance results

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 08:50:25 -0400

As part of the Green Tech conference on green technologies for the shipping industry, Green Marine has unveiled the first global results posted by participants in the St. Lawrence and Great Lakes Maritime Industry Environmental Program.

Montreal boxes drop sharply in April

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:14:21 -0400

The Port of Montreal has reported itself “relatively optimistic about the future,” although a 22.5-per-cent drop in April container traffic reduced performance that has proved comparatively strong against competitors.

Inadequate braking system caused fatal CN derailment: report

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:14:00 -0400

After one of the most exhaustive railway accident investigations it has undertaken, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada has found that the principal cause of a 60 mph death ride in British Columbia was the absence of supplementary braking on a 31-year-old Canadian National locomotive.

Canada, U.S. step up marine security

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:13:28 -0400

Canada and the United States are going to work co-operatively to boost marine and border security, senior cabinet ministers from the two countries have agreed.

CTA decision strengthens shipper position

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:13:07 -0400

The Canadian Transportation Agency has ruled that a company in a shipper’s logistics chain deserves proper level of service from the railways.

Prince Rupert to host annual ports group conference

Thu, 28 May 2009 16:24:27 -0400

Prince Rupert will host the 51st annual general meeting and conference of the Association of Canadian Port Authorities from Aug. 24 to 26.

Users support government decision on port authority status for Oshawa

Thu, 28 May 2009 16:24:08 -0400

The Oshawa Port Users Group says it supports the federal government’s decision to establish a port authority governance model for the Port of Oshawa.

Nova Scotia salutes top exporters

Wed, 27 May 2009 14:25:22 -0400

A small Cape Breton company that produces the only single malt whisky in North America was one of seven winners at the annual Nova Scotia Export Achievement Awards.

Melfi moves Med inbound call to Montreal from Halifax

Wed, 27 May 2009 14:15:59 -0400

The global recession has Melfi Lines rethinking its service through the Port of Halifax.

Three terminal operators express interest in Prince Rupert coal facility

Fri, 22 May 2009 15:31:01 -0400

Three North American terminal operators have shown interest in acquiring or partnering with an export coal handler in the northern British Columbia port of Prince Rupert, it was stated May 21.

Ottawa pursues port authority status for Oshawa

Fri, 22 May 2009 11:40:33 -0400

Transport Minister John Baird has announced his intention to create a Canada Port Authority to operate the Port of Oshawa.

Privatization of Prince Rupert coal terminal back on the table

Thu, 21 May 2009 14:51:20 -0400

Privatization of a federally owned export coal terminal at the northern British Columbia port of Prince Rupert is back on the table.

Canada must exert Arctic role: Senate report

Thu, 21 May 2009 13:54:13 -0400

Canada has to make its presence felt in the Arctic in concrete ways that will convince other countries that it takes its northern sovereignty claim seriously, says a report from the Senate fisheries and oceans committee.

New CEO for Safmarine

Thu, 21 May 2009 11:42:59 -0400

Safmarine has announced the appointment of Tomas Dyrbye as the company’s new chief executive officer.

Container gains, cruise triumph for Saint John in 2008

Thu, 21 May 2009 10:24:18 -0400

Potash exports are set to double when a new mine goes online next year and cruise traffic is now the second highest revenue generator at the Port of Saint John, but the recession took its toll on petroleum exports and forest products in the last half of 2008.

Port of Hamilton pleased with 2008 results

Tue, 19 May 2009 16:54:07 -0400

The Hamilton Port Authority says financial results for 2008 were better than expected with net income totalling $1.5 million, 63 per cent above the budgeted $900,000.

Montreal welcomes its first Green Award-certified vessel

Tue, 12 May 2009 15:55:15 -0400

The Bahamian-flagged Utviken, a Green Award-certified bulk carrier, arrived today at the Port of Montreal’s grain terminal to load 23,000 tonnes of wheat to be shipped to the Port of Antwerp in Belgium.

Study pegs Port of Halifax economic impact at $1.5 billion

Tue, 12 May 2009 15:40:14 -0400

The Port of Halifax, long touted as an economic driver for its region, generates more than $1.5 billion for the local economy, according to a recent impact study.

Belledune port boss named one of Atlantic Canada’s Top 50 CEOs

Fri, 08 May 2009 10:44:46 -0400

Atlantic Business Magazine has named the head of the Port of Belledune one of Atlantic Canada’s Top 50 CEOs. Rayburn Doucett, president and CEO of the Belledune Port Authority, received the award for excellence in corporate leadership at a ceremony in Halifax on May 7.

Almost all Vancouver truckers now aboard

Fri, 08 May 2009 10:10:08 -0400

A Vancouver truckers local of the Canadian Auto Workers union has called for another strike vote against a company using owner-operators to serve Port Metro Vancouver container terminals.

CITA applauds European action to end shipping conferences

Thu, 07 May 2009 16:39:17 -0400

The Canadian Industrial Transportation Association and the British Freight Transport Association have joined forces to host a seminar to help Canadian shippers and their supply chain partners understand the recent legal changes to liner and bulk shipping markets operating between Canada and Europe, and how these changes can lead to bottom-line benefits.

Moffatt & Nichol to plan new Montreal container, breakbulk terminals

Tue, 05 May 2009 13:35:04 -0400

Moffatt & Nichol says it has been selected by the Montreal Port Authority to prepare the detailed development plan, complete preliminary engineering and develop contracting strategies for the construction of the new Hochelaga-Viau container terminal and redevelopment of the Laurier-Tarte breakbulk terminal.

Prince Rupert tonnage falls 24.5 per cent

Mon, 04 May 2009 15:22:57 -0400

First-quarter cargo volumes through the Port of Prince Rupert were down 24.5 per cent from the corresponding period in 2008, sliding from 3.07 million tonnes to 2.3 million tonnes.

Sydney gets environmental OK for container terminal

Mon, 04 May 2009 14:47:10 -0400

The Nova Scotia government has given environmental approval, subject to strict conditions, for the construction and operation of a proposed container terminal in Sydney, Cape Breton.

Port of Halifax gets gateway cash for two projects

Mon, 04 May 2009 14:02:01 -0400

The Port of Halifax will see more than $100 million invested in infrastructure upgrades thanks to shared funding through the Atlantic Gateway initiative.

Limited number of truckers involved in Vancouver dispute

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 16:02:31 -0400

Local 2006 of the Canadian Auto Workers union was in a position to strike two trucking companies draying to container terminals in Port Metro Vancouver at midnight, April 29.

Port of Montreal reduces tariffs to 2008 levels

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 11:28:26 -0400

The Montreal Port Authority said that effective July 1, it will be amending its 2009 tariffs, reducing them by 5 per cent. This will effectively return the tariffs to 2008 levels.

Northern challenges focus of marine industry conference

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:16:57 -0400

Senior decision-makers in the Canadian marine industry will gather in St. John’s in May to discuss the engineering challenges and opportunities of working in northern ice-covered and harsh environments.

CN taps Mongeau as future CEO

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 11:24:25 -0400

Claude Mongeau will replace E. Hunter Harrison at the end of this year as president and CEO of Canadian National Railway, the company said.

New container service for Port of Halifax

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 10:48:20 -0400

The Port of Halifax and Halterm Container Terminal Ltd. have landed a new service. The CKYH Alliance, comprising Cosco Container Lines, “K” Line, Yang Ming and Hanjin Shipping, will begin a weekly container service through the port beginning May 3.

Cruise North America magazine launches website

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 12:15:05 -0400

Cruise North America, the magazine published by Canadian Sailings that showcases North America as a premier destination to the cruise and travel trade industries, is pleased to announce the launch of its website www.cruisenorthamerica.ca.

Atlantic Gateway group focuses on region’s competitiveness

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 13:52:09 -0400

The Atlantic Gateway Advisory Council, through its advisory role to the federal government, has begun its work to boost the region’s trade competitiveness.

Rumours swirl over Hapag-Lloyd layoffs

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 15:50:11 -0400

Rumours are swirling around Montreal about Hapag-Lloyd’s layoffs in Canada. “It’s the talk of the town,” said the unnamed source. “I heard that seven were laid off in Montreal, seven in Vancouver and one in Toronto. Other people are talking about 40 or more from the three cities.”

Atlantic Canada trucking group wants highway tolls eliminated

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 15:49:40 -0400

Highway tolls are costing the Atlantic Canada trucking industry tens of millions of dollars annually and the Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association wants them eliminated.

New air cargo service for Halifax

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 15:49:06 -0400

Halifax Stanfield International Airport has another dedicated air cargo service. Asiana Cargo, a division of Korean-based Asiana Airlines, has begun scheduled weekly service from Halifax to Brussels, Belgium, and Seoul, South Korea, using a Boeing 747-400F.

Activity returns to Davie shipyard

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 15:20:14 -0400

After several months of uncertainty over its future, the historic Davie shipyard in Lévis, Que., is again a beehive of shipbuilding activity. Following an unexpected and sudden closing in early December, the plant began recalling its 1,100 employees early last month to resume work on orders for five vessels with a total contract price of $741 million.

St. Lawrence Seaway celebrates 50th anniversary

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 15:22:29 -0400

The St. Lawrence Seaway celebrated its 50th anniversary at the St. Lambert Lock in Montreal on March 31. Since its inception, more than 2.5 billion tonnes of cargo valued in excess of $375 billion has been transported via the Seaway.

OECD predicts ‘terrible’ year

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:04:39 -0400

The Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development is slashing its 2009 forecast to show economies in the 30-nation bloc will shrink a combined 4.2 per cent, general secretary Angel Gurria announced today.

WTO expects significant decline in global trade

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:04:16 -0400

World Trade Organization economists predicted on March 25 that the collapse in global demand brought on by the biggest economic downturn in decades will drive exports down by roughly 9 per cent in volume terms, the biggest such contraction since the Second World War.

CKYH Alliance rationalizes East Coast services

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:03:52 -0400

The four members of the CKYH Alliance, Cosco, “K” Line, Yang Ming and Hanjin, said they will rationalize their all-water services from the Far East to the North American East Coast as of April.

Port community focuses on federal funding for infrastructure

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:50:16 -0400

The Association of Canadian Port Authorities says this year’s Port/Government Interface will focus on federal funding for infrastructure. The event will be held at the Delta Ottawa Hotel on May 11-12.

Air Canada extends Unisys contracts

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 10:41:48 -0400

Air Canada in December extended its existing contracts for two Unisys air cargo solutions. The company’s hosting and integration services agreement will last another five years; the cargo portal services pact will run three more years.

IATA revises loss forecast downward

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 10:18:17 -0400

The world’s airlines face losses of US$4.7 billion this year as the deepening global recession shrinks cargo and passenger revenues, the International Air Transport Association said.

Blue Water Bridge upgrade moved ahead by two years

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:23:30 -0400

New economic stimulus spending by the federal government is hurrying along the upgrading of the Canadian half of the Blue Water Bridge, the second busiest Canada-United States commercial border crossing.

U.S. Great Lakes shippers: dredge here

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:23:05 -0400

U.S. Great Lakes shipping interests have an urgent suggestion for Obama Administration stimulus spending – if you want to support American-made steel in infrastructure improvements, then dig down and dredge harbours and channels.

Halifax Gateway Council signs deals with Memphis, Churchill

Sun, 22 Mar 2009 17:22:12 -0400

Prairie grain may have a new route to market and a major southern distribution centre may have found a new port on the Atlantic as a result of agreements with the Halifax Gateway Council.

Pelletier firing no shock: former Port of Montreal board member

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 08:48:49 -0400

A former member of the board of directors of the Montreal Port Authority said he wasn’t “shocked” by the firing on St. Patrick’s Day of port boss Patrice Pelletier a year and a half into the job.

Unemployed box fleet hits 484 ships

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 16:07:20 -0400

Idled ocean container capacity hit a new high of 1.41 million TEUs, or 11.3 per cent of the world fleet on March 16, with 484 ships lying at anchor as carriers continued to retrench amid declining cargo volumes on most liner trade routes.

Halifax Shipyard to build $60-million offshore supply vessel

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:40:49 -0400

The federal government will wait another year before trying to tighten its control over Arctic shipping by requiring all vessels to report to Canadian authorities before entering Canada’s 200-mile zone in the North, says Transport Minister John Baird.

New contract for Halifax port workers

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 14:46:41 -0400

The Port of Halifax will have labour stability for the next three years. The Halifax Employers Association has signed a new collective agreement with its three labour unions.

New transportation corporation for Port of Sydney

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 11:28:29 -0400

The Port of Sydney will become more focused on its development with plans to establish a marine transportation corporation. Its primary purpose will be to manage and oversee regulation, utilization and development of the port.

IMO forms global ballast alliance

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:12:30 -0400

The International Maritime Organization has organized an alliance of public and private interests to tackle the problem of the spread of exotic marine species by way of ships’ ballast water.

Maersk boosts 2008 profits

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 11:32:11 -0500

Maersk Line, the world’s biggest ocean container carrier, booked a modest increase in profits in 2008 as cost cuts, improved operating performance and higher freight rates in the first half compensated for a global market downturn in the final quarter.

Nova Scotia cans one of its gateway projects

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 11:31:48 -0500

The Nova Scotia government has decided against pursuing a major gateway project because of high costs. Premier Rodney MacDonald had included the development of the CN rail cut into an integrated transportation corridor from the Halterm container terminal in the south end of Halifax to a major highway out of the city.

Shipbuilders continue efforts to remove industry from free trade deals

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:54:59 -0500

Representatives of the shipbuilding industry are continuing their efforts to get their protective tariff off the table in Canada’s free trade talks. Karl Risser, president of Local 1, Marine Workers Federation/Canadian Auto Workers, in Halifax, recently appeared before the standing committee on international trade to press for federal policies to support the industry.

Nothing left to rationalize in industry, shipbuilders say

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:54:41 -0500

Canadian companies tried to make the best of a bad situation while they pushed the federal government for the last seven years for a reasonable shipbuilding policy to counter the effects of free trade agreements.

Arctic shipping controls delayed to 2010

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 15:20:12 -0500

WMG Shipyards names McNeill marketing manager

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:51:02 -0500

Washington Marine Group Shipyards has named John McNeill manager of marketing and sales. His former role as Vancouver Shipyards’ manager of commercial accounts has been restructured into the new position, allowing him to identify opportunities and apply his experience across all three WMG Shipyards operations.

Kuehne & Nagel boosts 2008 earnings

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 12:33:15 -0500

Bucking the economic downturn, the Kuehne & Nagel Group enjoyed its best results ever in 2008, despite a significant decline in cargo volume during the fourth quarter of last year.

Idle box fleet reaches 1.35 million TEUs

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 11:51:57 -0500

Idled ocean container capacity on March 2 reached a record 1.35 million TEUs with 453 ships without work as carriers continue to axe services in the face of collapsing cargo volumes and tumbling freight rates across all trade routes.

Hapag-Lloyd, OOCL suspend one of three Montreal-Europe services

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 12:11:59 -0500

Hapag-Lloyd and OOCL on Monday suspended of one of their three services between Montreal and Europe “as a result of economic developments.”

Zim CEO resigns

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 11:53:46 -0500

Doron Goder, CEO of Zim Integrated Shipping Services, has quit his post over differences in strategy with the Israeli ocean carrier’s parent company.

Halifax port, Seaway talk short-sea shipping

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:44:27 -0500

Officials from the Halifax Port Authority and the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation met in Halifax recently to discuss ways of growing the short sea-shipping trade between Halifax and ports along the Seaway system.

Keller named executive VP of NYK Group Americas

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:35:59 -0500

NYK Group Americas has named Peter Keller, currently president of NYK (North America), to the position of executive vice-president and chief operating officer.

Oldfield to continue to lead Halifax port

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 16:00:41 -0500

Karen Oldfield will continue to lead the Halifax Port Authority. The authority’s board of directors has renewed Ms. Oldfield’s contract as president and CEO until Dec. 31, 2012.

Record year for Moncton air cargo

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 15:24:27 -0500

Greater Moncton International Airport bucked the cargo trend and registered a record year in 2008. The airport handled 26,700 tonnes of cargo, up 9.1 per cent over 2007.

Cape Breton gets gateway boost

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 15:23:49 -0500

An important initiative in Cape Breton’s Atlantic Gateway program got a financial boost from the Nova Scotia government with a commitment of $2 million to help offset costs for preliminary work needed prior to harbour channel dredging.

Seaway to open March 31

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 10:32:11 -0500

The St. Lawrence Seaway has announced that the 2009 navigation season will begin on March 31 at 8 a.m. for both the Montreal-Lake Ontario section of the waterway and the Welland Canal.

Tentative deal ends strike threat at B.C. ports

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 09:19:49 -0500

A threatened work stoppage that would have idled container and other traffic at British Columbia ports ended this week with a tentative agreement between negotiators for 450 unionized dock forepersons and the British Columbia Maritime Employers' Association.

Idled fleet soars to 1.1 million TEUs

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 09:19:20 -0500

Idled ocean container capacity has soared to 1.1 million TEUs (20-foot-equivalent units) with 392 ships lying at anchor as slumping cargo flows force carriers to suspend liner services.

Submerged turbines given clean bill of health

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 09:18:56 -0500

It was a surreal moment for logistics professionals. Two turbine rotors destined for a power plant refit were accidentally dropped into Saint John harbour on Oct. 15. The turbines, each weighing 107 tonnes, apparently sank gently to the bottom of the harbour and were recovered several days later.

Hapag-Lloyd to maintain Med-Canada service

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 11:37:18 -0500

Hapag-Lloyd today assured shippers that its Canada-Mediterranean service will continue unchanged after its partner on the route, Senator Lines, announced earlier this week it is ceasing all operations.

Halifax boxes down 21% in 2008

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 14:12:46 -0500

As was anticipated for the past several months, the Port of Halifax hardly had a stellar year with its container cargo volumes in 2008. Although the port’s cruise business increased by 35 per cent and breakbulk and roll-on/roll-off traffic were up 12.1 per cent and 15.8 per cent, respectively, the number of containers handled dropped by 21 per cent last year, according to official figures released by the Halifax Port Authority.

Marine Atlantic ponders reservations for commercial trucks

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 14:12:20 -0500

Marine Atlantic is contemplating the use of a reservations system for commercial trucks in an effort to make traffic flow a bit smoother.

Port Metro Vancouver names new CEO

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 15:04:13 -0500

Port Metro Vancouver has named Robin Silvester, a former executive with P&O Ports, as its new president and CEO. Mr. Silvester is currently based in Australia as chief executive of United Group Services ANZ, an organization that focuses on property and facilities management in Australia and New Zealand.

Daewoo Shipbuilding explores opportunities in Nova Scotia

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:24:55 -0500

A top Korean company has shown an interest in Nova Scotia and has been exploring business possibilities in the province. Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering and the province have signed a memorandum of understanding. Daewoo is interested in exploring commercial opportunities in Nova Scotia in marine fabrication, offshore oil and gas exploration, and renewable energy, the province said in a release.

Coal a bright spot for Port Metro Vancouver

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:24:16 -0500

Container traffic remained nearly stable at Port Metro Vancouver in 2008 while total cargo tonnage dropped 10 per cent to 114.6 million tonnes from 127.8 million tonnes the previous year

Canada’s two major bulk ports renew twinning entente

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:23:26 -0500

The strong personal and professional bonds that have been created over the past two decades between officials at Canada’s two biggest bulk ports have led to the renewal of an historic twinning agreement between the two facilities.

Lifeline to Yarmouth-Maine ferry

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 11:23:53 -0500

The Nova Scotia government is throwing a lifeline to the Yarmouth-to-Maine ferry service. Without the government’s support, Bay Ferries Ltd., of Charlottetown, says the service could not operate. Bay Ferries owns and operates the high-speed ferry The Cat, which travels seasonally between Yarmouth and Portland and Yarmouth and Bar Harbor.

Richardson International sets vessel loading record

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 11:23:25 -0500

Richardson International Limited says it has set a record for the volume of canola loaded aboard a vessel in Port Metro Vancouver. Richardson loaded more than 65,500 tonnes of canola aboard the Medi Sentosa, a vessel bound for the United Arab Emirates, during a seven-day period, from Jan. 8-15.

Saint John container, cruise traffic up in 2008

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 11:22:54 -0500

Although the Port of Saint John experienced a 6-per-cent decrease in overall traffic last year, the number of cruise passengers increased by a record 38 per cent and container traffic was up 10 per cent over 2007.

B.C. maritime employers, foremen to continue negotiations on Friday

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 15:02:02 -0500

Negotiations are set to continue in Vancouver on Friday between maritime employers and longshore foremen aimed at averting possible work stoppages at the ports of Vancouver and Prince Rupert.

Work proceeding on Deltaport Third Berth

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 14:29:41 -0500

Port Metro Vancouver has issued a Deltaport Third Berth construction update. The installation of terminal operator TSI’s underground services is proceeding, as are Port Metro Vancouver’s marine works.

Drewry sees tough year ahead

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 14:08:54 -0500

This year will be the toughest test yet for the global container shipping industry and further casualties among operators are a real possibility, according to Drewry Shipping Consultants, which issued the warning in its latest quarterly Container Forecaster.

Cougar Helicopters sets up shop in Halifax

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 13:54:07 -0500

St. John’s-based Cougar Helicopters is setting up shop in Halifax to support work in Nova Scotia’s offshore gas industry.