Port of Halifax welcomes largest containerized cargo vessel call a Canadian port

The CMA CGM Marco Polo has arrived at PSA Halifax in the Port of Halifax. This is the largest containerized cargo vessel to call on a Canadian port, and the first call for a vessel of this size along the East Coast of North America.

The CMA CGM Marco Polo has carrying capacity of 16,022 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) and is 396 metres length overall with 54 metres beam. The CMA CGM Marco Polo sails on the weekly the weekly Ocean Alliance AWE3 service arriving direct from South Asia, South East Asia and China. With a terminal area of 32 hectares, a continuous berth length of 800 metres and a depth of 16.5 metres, PSA Halifax is the only port in Eastern Canada that can accommodate ultra-class vessels. 

“We have a reliable workforce here in Halifax. We have a strong community sense here. We can work it efficiently and reliably,” said Captain Allan Gray, President and CEO, Halifax Port Authority.  “Saltwater is in our veins. We know how to handle these big ships and turn them around.” 

The Port of Halifax is Canada’s Ultra Atlantic Gateway, connecting to more than 150 countries. In 2020, the total impact of the Port of Halifax on the Province of Nova Scotia was over $3.6 billion in economic output with the direct portion being $2.3 billion. This level of activity generated over 18,775 jobs.

Offering a natural, deep harbour and big ship infrastructure, Halifax can accommodate large volumes of containerized cargo, bulk cargo and project cargo of any size. Collaborating and working with strong partners and stakeholders, the Port community in Halifax continues to deliver excellence.