First Ocean-Going Ship Arrives in Duluth Harbor

(Learfield News/Duluth, MN) — The Duluth Seaway Port Authority has officially welcomed the first ocean-going vessel of the 2025 shipping season.

The Federal Nagara passed under the Aerial Lift Bridge around 6 o’clock Monday morning.

Officials say the saltie departed Germany in late March, carrying manufactured machinery headed for Duluth and then headed for a sugar mill in the Red River Valley.

The Federal Nagara’s captain and crew were welcomed during a ceremony.

The winner of this year’s First Ship contest in Duluth must have a crystal ball.

Jason Hron of the Duluth Seaway Port Authority says it was one of the best guesses ever. A woman named Christy guessed within 38 seconds of the actual arrival time. The Federal Nagara passed under the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge at 6:05 am and 22 seconds Monday and she guessed 6:06 am.

Christy wins a Duluth-themed prize package worth about a thousand dollars that includes a hotel stay in Canal Park.