The Alabama Port Authority has announced that the Mobile Ship Channel has officially achieved its authorized depth of 50 feet, marking a major milestone for both the Port of Mobile and the state’s economic growth.
In collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the Mobile Bar Pilots, the Port recently reviewed the most recent soundings of the channel. Following their assessment, all parties confirmed that the waterway is now ready for vessels drawing up to 50 feet.
Within hours of certification, the SAKIZAWA POWER—already docked at the Port’s McDuffie Coal Terminal, became the first ship to navigate the deeper channel. The vessel increased its load capacity and departed with a 48.4-foot draft, the maximum permitted for that ship type, clearing the newly deepened waterway at 12:15 p.m.
“This milestone shows the immediate value of the project,” said Alabama Port Authority Interim Director and CEO Doug Otto. “As soon as the Corps confirmed the channel was ready, our customers took advantage of the additional depth. This is exactly why this project matters—it means lower shipping costs, more efficient trade, and an even stronger economic engine for Alabama.”
Valued at $366 million, the Mobile Harbor Modernization Project represents a joint state–federal partnership that makes the Port of Mobile the deepest container port in the Gulf of America, capable of accommodating super-post-Panamax vessels. APM Terminals Mobile expects ocean carriers to begin deploying larger ships soon, taking advantage of the new depth to improve efficiencies for customers.
“From the federal authorization process to passing the Rebuild Alabama Act, this would not have been possible without the leadership of former Senator Richard Shelby and Governor Kay Ivey,” said Alabama Port Authority Board Chairman Zeke Smith. “Together, their actions forged the state–federal partnership that brought this transformative project to completion.”
Governor Kay Ivey stated, “From day one, I have said that the Port of Mobile is Alabama’s gateway to the world. By passing the Rebuild Alabama Act, we ensured that our state could provide the federal match and move this critical project forward. Today, we see the payoff of that vision. A 50-foot channel is not just a milestone for the Port—it is a generational investment in Alabama jobs, growth, and prosperity.”
“This is a proud day for Alabama and for me personally,” said Senator Shelby. “Securing full federal funding for the deepening and widening of the Mobile Ship Channel was one of my top priorities in Congress because I knew what it would mean for our state’s economy. Today’s achievement cements the Port of Mobile’s place as a premier gateway for global trade and ensures Alabama businesses have the tools they need to thrive in the decades to come.”
While vessel traffic can now utilize the full 50-foot depth, work is ongoing to expand the turning basin near the Port’s container terminal. This portion of the effort is taking additional time, as dredged material is being repurposed for shoreline restoration on Dauphin Island, highlighting the project’s dual economic and environmental significance.
