First vessel departs at historic draft, marking milestone for state economy
The Alabama Port Authority has confirmed that the Mobile Ship Channel has reached its authorized 50-foot depth. The achievement marks a major step forward for the Port of Mobile and the state’s economic growth.
First Vessel Uses Deeper Channel
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the Mobile Bar Pilots reviewed new soundings and confirmed the channel safe for 50-foot drafts.
Within hours, the SAKIZAWA POWER, docked at the McDuffie Coal Terminal, became the first ship to use the deepened channel. It loaded additional cargo and departed with a 48.4-foot draft, the maximum load for that vessel.
“This milestone shows the immediate value of the project,” said Doug Otto, Interim Director and CEO of the Alabama Port Authority. “As soon as the Corps confirmed readiness, our customers took advantage of the added depth. It means lower costs, more efficient trade, and a stronger Alabama economy.”
Modernization Strengthens Gulf Trade
The US$366 million Mobile Harbor Modernization Project is a state–federal partnership. It makes the Port of Mobile the deepest container port on the U.S. Gulf Coast, capable of handling super post-Panamax vessels.
APM Terminals Mobile expects carriers to upsize ships soon, increasing efficiency and reducing transportation costs.
Leadership and Funding Support
Zeke Smith, Chairman of the Alabama Port Authority Board, credited the success to former Senator Richard Shelbyand Governor Kay Ivey.
“Their leadership forged the partnership that made this possible,” Smith said.
The project began in 2014 when Senator Shelby secured federal funding for the USACE study that led to congressional authorization in 2018. In 2019, Governor Ivey signed the Rebuild Alabama Act, securing the state’s 25 percent funding share.
“The Port of Mobile is Alabama’s gateway to the world,” said Governor Ivey. “This 50-foot channel is a generational investment in jobs, growth, and prosperity.”
Senator Shelby added, “This project has been one of my top priorities. It cements the Port of Mobile’s place as a premier global trade hub.”
Next Phase and Environmental Benefits
Work continues to widen the turning basin near the container terminal. Dredged material from this phase is being reused for shoreline restoration on Dauphin Island, providing both economic and environmental benefits.
The Alabama Port Authority will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the coming weeks to mark the completion of the Mobile Harbor Modernization Project.
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