DP World expands Port Saint John capacity

DP World and Port Saint John have welcomed two of the largest cranes ever deployed at the port, marking a major step in enhancing container handling capacity and operational efficiency.

The new additions aim to bolster the port’s role in global trade and strengthen Saint John’s position as a key Atlantic gateway.

The cranes, each with an outreach of 65 metres and capable of spanning 24 containers wide, can service vessels exceeding 10,000 TEUs. Their arrival increases the port’s total to six quay cranes, the highest capacity in its history.

DP World first brought two cranes to Port Saint John in 2017, followed by two post-Panamax cranes in 2023. The newest cranes, announced earlier this year, arrived Nov. 29 after travelling 720 nautical miles from the Port of Virginia in Norfolk, Va. The equipment is expected to be operational in early 2025.

“We are proud to enhance Port Saint John’s capabilities with these advanced cranes,” said Doug Smith, CEO of DP World in Canada. “Their extended reach and capacity will enable DP World to handle larger vessels, bolstering the port’s container throughput and efficiency. With its ambitious modernization projects, global connections to over 500 ports, and seamless intermodal transport links, Port Saint John is primed for significant growth. With our ongoing investments and commitment to the community, we’re confident the port will continue to evolve into a vital, competitive gateway on Canada’s East Coast, driving economic impact for the region.”

The arrival of the cranes coincides with the completion of the port’s $250-million modernization project, solidifying Port Saint John’s status as a growing Atlantic gateway.

“The arrival of two additional cranes marks yet another transformational milestone for our port,” said Craig Bell Estabrooks, president and CEO of Port Saint John. “Expanding capacity and improving efficiency will be key to delivering further jobs and prosperity for our region.”

Jack Keir, chair of the Port Saint John board of directors, echoed those sentiments. “Having a world-class partner like DP World continuing to invest in our port is great news. The momentum sparked by our modernized infrastructure continues to pay off for our community,” he said.