The 2017 shipping season has begun in the Port of Thunder Bay.  MV Manitoulin arrived in Thunder Bay this morning, Friday March 24, making it the earliest season opening for the Port of Thunder Bay since 2008.

Thunder Bay Port Authority along with the City of Thunder Bay and the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Opening of Navigation “Top Hat” Ceremony at Richardson’s Main Elevator at 2:15p.m. Friday, March 24.  Media are encouraged to attend.

The Port Authority will recognize the Manitoulin with the ceremonial Top Hat, which is bestowed to the vessel which opens the local navigation season.  Captain John Carlson and Chief Engineer Dmitrii Pustoshkin will be acknowledged and will be available for comment.

The Manitoulin is owned and operated by Lower Lakes Towing.  The vessel is taking on grain and will be destined for Buffalo, NY upon departure.