Montreal Welcomes First Ship of 2026 with Historic Tradition
The bustling Port of Montreal recently welcomed the arrival of the ocean-going vessel Byzantion, marking the beginning of a new year of maritime activity. This significant event was accompanied by a long-standing tradition where the captain of the ship, Andrejs Kuharenoks, was honored with the prestigious Gold-Headed Cane.
Dating back to the 1840s, this ceremony holds special meaning, symbolizing a time when winter ice would halt shipping activities on the St. Lawrence River. Back then, Montrealers eagerly gathered at the docks to celebrate the arrival of the first ship, often laden with essential supplies like food and clothing.
Since 1964, the Port of Montreal has enjoyed year-round navigation, ensuring a continuous flow of goods to and from the bustling harbor. The vessel Byzantion, as described by the ship-tracking website MarineTraffic, is a formidable 182-meter-long oil and chemical tanker flying the flag of the Marshall Islands.
