AN ENDURING TRADITION: THE PORT OF QUÉBEC WELCOMES ITS FIRST SHIP OF THE YEAR
Québec City, January 3, 2026 — The Port of Québec launched its maritime year today with the arrival of the first ocean-going vessel of 2026. This marks the start of a new cycle of activities for the port community. The MV Mayaro, hailing from Chesapeake (USA), docked at wharf 50 in the morning, under the command of Captain Leroy J. Enguerra, who will be receiving this year’s gold-headed cane—an emblematic distinction in Québec port history.
A Symbolic Ceremony for the Maritime World
A highly anticipated event takes place at the start of each new year: the presentation of the gold-headed cane to the captain of the first international ship to arrive. This tradition, with its roots in almost two centuries of history, highlights Québec’s distinctive role in St. Lawrence navigation and honours the skill of the sailors who brave winter conditions to reach port.
Welcoming the first ship of the year serves as a reminder of just how closely the Port of Québec is linked to maritime life, with all the trades and heritage that brings. This tradition highlights the discipline and coordination of all those involved in keeping the river navigable and efficient, even in the depths of winter.
This First Ship of 2026: a Landmark Arrival
The MV Mayaro, built in 2015 and operated by Montship inc., is starting off 2026 carrying methanol. Its arrival required the mobilization of several partners, including the Corporation des pilotes du Bas Saint-Laurent, the Coast Guard, Ocean Group, Fednav, and IMTT, who work together to ensure that operations run smoothly at all times.
This first call marks the symbolic start of a new year of activity for the Port of Québec, which handles millions of tonnes of cargo every year that are essential to keeping Québec’s and Canada’s supply chains running.
A Forward-Looking Port
Thanks to its strategic location and complementary terminals, the Port of Québec continues to be an important hub for local and international companies. In 2026, the organization will begin its infrastructure modernization plan and will pursue its commitment to being a good neighbour and building a more effective and resilient supply chain.
About The Port of Québec
The Port of Québec is strategically located 1100 km from the Atlantic Ocean, close to the Great Lakes market. It is the last deepwater port in the St. Lawrence corridor, with a depth of 15 metres. This unique position allows Canadian companies to achieve significant economies of scale in both import and export trade.
With links to more than 40 partner countries, the Port of Québec and its employees handle an average of over 26 million tonnes of goods every year, representing a commercial value of over $15 billion.
The Port is also recognized as the leading cruise port on the St. Lawrence; along with all its partners in Québec’s maritime industry, it contributes to $2 billion in economic spin-offs while supporting some 12,000 jobs nationwide.
The Québec Port Authority (QPA) is ranked 4th out of the 17 Canadian port authorities in terms of revenue. While it is economically powerful, it is also known for its contributions to the area’s urban and social fabric thanks to port spaces like the Agora, the Baie de Beauport, the Oasis, La Cale, the Discoglace, and the Village Nordik.
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Source et information
Frédéric Lagacé
Director, Public Affairs and Communications
418-929-5031 | [email protected]