Port of Mobile Achieves Historic 50-Foot Channel Depth

The Port of Mobile has officially become the deepest container terminal on the Gulf of America, following the completion of the $366 million Mobile Harbor Modernization Project. This significant achievement enhances Alabama's position in global trade and is expected to stimulate economic growth across the state.

On October 3, 2025, the Mobile Ship Channel reached its authorized depth of 50 feet, marking a transformational milestone for the Port of Mobile and Alabama’s economy. The first vessel to utilize the deeper channel was the SAKIZAWA POWER, which departed with a 48.4-foot draft—the maximum load for that particular vessel—just hours after the certification. This immediate utilization underscores the project's immediate impact on shipping efficiency and capacity.

The Mobile Harbor Modernization Project was a joint initiative between the Alabama Port Authority and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It involved deepening and widening the Mobile Ship Channel to improve navigational efficiency, accommodate larger vessels, and strengthen Alabama’s position as a global trade gateway. The project also included the creation of nearly three miles of passing lanes, allowing for two-way vessel traffic and reducing transit times. These enhancements are expected to improve safety and increase cargo capacity, delivering faster turnarounds for customers.

The Port of Mobile plays a crucial role in Alabama’s economy. According to a 2021 economic impact study, the port generates $25.1 billion in economic value and supports over 153,000 direct and indirect jobs in the State. Governor Kay Ivey highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “This project is a game changer for Alabama, which is why I made it a key component of our Rebuild Alabama plan. A deeper channel means stronger trade, more jobs, and a brighter future for our state.”

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville emphasized the importance of the project, saying, “This project to deepen the ship channel is a massive win for the state of Alabama, and we are proud to have the deepest container port in the Gulf of America. With a 50-foot channel, larger vessels carrying more cargo can call Mobile—growing the Port’s economic impact across our state and our country.”

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt also expressed support, noting, “Today is a momentous occasion for Mobile, for Alabama, and for our nation. For many years and in several capacities, I have been honored to support the Port of Mobile’s success and help grow our vital state-federal partnership.”

Former Senator Richard Shelby, whose leadership was responsible for initiating the project, said that. “Driving growth at Alabama’s Port has always been key to Alabama’s economic future. When I visited the Port of Singapore years ago, I saw how a relatively small geographic area leveraged its port system to drive incredible economic success, and I knew then that Alabama had the very same potential. The results so far are evidence of more success to come. From getting the authorization for the channel project to securing $438 million for the Port before I left office, this project has been years in the making, and I could not be prouder to see it completed for the people and the future of Alabama.”

U.S. Representative Barry Moore (R-AL1) marked the event by saying, “This is a proud day for Alabama and a historic milestone for the Gulf Coast. The completion of the Mobile Harbor Modernization Project is the result of years of hard work, vision, and investment in our state’s future. By achieving a 50-foot channel depth, the Port of Mobile is now the deepest container terminal in the Gulf of America. That’s not just a statistic – it’s a game-changer for trade, commerce, and jobs right here in Alabama. With this expansion, larger vessels can now come directly into Mobile, boosting the Port’s competitiveness on the global stage and opening new opportunities for our farmers, manufacturers, and small businesses.”

Rep. Shomari Figures (D-AL2) praised the project’s completion: “This project is a major win for Mobile and the entire state of Alabama. With the Port of Mobile now the deepest in the Gulf, we are creating more jobs, investments, and opportunities for communities across the Gulf Coast. I am proud to support infrastructure that delivers for people and moves Alabama forward.“

 Rep. Dale Strong (R-AL5) from Huntsville highlighted the broader impact, stating, “In north Alabama, our economy depends on this port. From Redstone Arsenal and our defense industry base to our auto industry and our advanced manufacturers, each of these industries rely on the port to ship and receive materials quickly and affordably.”

Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson commended all involved, saying, “This is a transformational milestone for the City of Mobile and the entire state of Alabama. The Port is essential to our local economy — it’s the foundation of what makes Mobile an unrivaled logistics hub, and it supports industries far beyond the waterfront. I want to commend the leadership of the Alabama Port Authority, Gov. Kay Ivey, former Senator Richard Shelby, and everyone else who bought into the vision of what the Port of Mobile could become. We’re already seeing the results today, and the best is still ahead of us.”

Commissioner Merceria Ludgood, Mobile County Commission District 1, focused on the impact of the deeper channel, saying, “This is a proud day for Mobile County and the entire Gulf Coast region. The deepening of the Mobile Ship Channel to 50 feet isn’t just about bigger ships, it’s about bigger opportunities for our local workforce, businesses, and communities. This project strengthens our position in the global supply chain and ensures long-term economic growth right here at home. We’re grateful to all who helped bring this vision to life.”

The completion of the Mobile Harbor Modernization Project positions the Port of Mobile to handle larger vessels and increased cargo volumes. This development is expected to attract more international trade, create additional jobs, and contribute to Alabama.’s continued growth and prosperity. As the Port continues to expand its capabilities, its status as a vital asset in Alabama’s economic landscape will only increase.

For more information about the Port of Mobile and its services, visit www.alports.com.