Only 1 ship wintering at port

By Sandi Krasowski, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Source: The Chronicle-Journal

The Canada Steamship Lines Baie Comeau, a self-unloading lake freighter, is wintering comfortably at Keefer Terminal and is the only vessel wintering in the Thunder Bay port this year.

Port of Thunder Bay chief executive officer Chris Heikkinen said there are typically two or more wintering vessels in the port.

“This season, an earlier freeze-up than usual in the lower Great Lakes hindered two anticipated vessels from making the trip up to Thunder Bay before the locks closed,” he said, adding that the Soo Locks, which are operated by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, remained open until their usual closure date of Jan. 15.

“Schedules are always fluid at the end of the shipping season, and wintering locations for vessels can be changed for a variety of reasons, including sailing conditions.”

Each winter, Midcontinent Terminal, Ontario Shipyards (formerly Heddle) and Keefer terminals have taken on wintering ships that arrive at the end of the navigation season.

Heikkinen said every wintering ship provides an economic boost to the local economy. The vessels require inspection services and typically undergo some form of maintenance and repairs during their winter stays. The actual benefit provided is unique to the needs of each wintering vessel.

The Soo Locks, which are currently undergoing their own winter maintenance work, are slated to open for the 2026 navigation season on March 25.