Saint John's, Nfld, Canada

Port Overview

Saint John’s, Newfoundland, is located on the eastern tip of the Avalon Peninsula, making it the easternmost major port in North America. It is one of Atlantic Canada’s busiest container ports and ranks among the top container ports in the region. Its strategic location provides direct access to North Atlantic shipping lanes, serving as a key gateway for trade between Canada, Europe, and the eastern United States. The port handles approximately 150,000 TEU annually, supporting both regional and international cargo movement.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Saint John, Newfoundland’s main port facilities include the Lower Cove Terminal for containers, the Barrack Point Potash Terminal for bulk cargo, and Long Wharf for dry bulk, breakbulk, and project cargo. Key equipment includes mobile harbor cranes, reach stackers, and forklifts. The port does not currently use AGVs. Cruise operations are handled at the Marco Polo and Diamond Jubilee terminals, both equipped for large vessels and efficient passenger processing.

Container Terminals

Saint John’s, Newfoundland, Canada, has one main container terminal operated by Oceanex Inc. The terminal features two berths and handles approximately 90,000 TEUs annually. It is not fully automated, relying on conventional cargo handling methods. Oceanex is the primary operator, providing regular weekly service to Montreal and Halifax. The facility supports both container and Ro-Ro operations, serving as the province’s main container gateway.

Port Services

Main services at Saint John's, Newfoundland, Canada:

• Container handling: Primary and most advanced container terminal in the province.
• Cargo operations: Handles general cargo, dry and liquid bulk, breakbulk, and project cargo.
• Ship services: Marine maintenance, offshore energy supply and service, and support for fishing and cruise vessels.
• Warehousing: On-site storage and logistics support for various cargo types.
• Customs: Full customs and border services available at the marine terminal.

Global Connectivity

Saint John’s, Newfoundland, is a key Atlantic Canadian port offering year-round, ice-free access and direct connections to major shipping routes across the North Atlantic. It serves Newfoundland and Labrador, supports container, bulk, and offshore energy cargo, and links to ports in Europe, the U.S. East Coast, and Central Canada. The port’s connectivity is enhanced by intermodal rail and highway links, efficiently reaching markets in Canada, the U.S., and beyond.

Port Statistics

Port of St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada:

• TEU throughput: Approximately 50,000–55,000 TEU annually
• World ranking: Not ranked among the world’s top container ports
• Number of berths: 9 commercial berths
• Port area: 34 hectares (84 acres)
• Shipping lines: Served by major carriers including Oceanex, CMA CGM, and MSC

The port is the province’s main container terminal and a key offshore energy and supply hub.