Canada, being a large country with access to three major oceans (Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic), has a wide range of ports for various needs. Here are the main types of ports in Canada:
- Seaports: Seaports are crucial for maritime trade and passenger transportation. Canada has several major seaports, including:
- Port of Vancouver: Located on the Pacific Coast, the Port of Vancouver is Canada’s largest and busiest port. It handles a wide range of cargo types, including containers, bulk goods, and petroleum products. It is also a key hub for cruise tourism.
- Port of Montreal: Situated on the Lawrence River in Quebec, the Port of Montreal is one of Canada’s largest inland ports and handles containerized cargo, bulk goods, and petroleum products. It is a vital gateway for trade between Canada and Europe.
- Port of Halifax: Located on the Atlantic Coast, the Port of Halifax is an important seaport handling containerized cargo, bulk goods, and cruise tourism. It is a key transshipment hub for goods traveling between Europe and North America.
- Inland Ports: In addition to seaports, Canada has inland ports located along its major rivers and lakes, facilitating inland waterway transportation and trade. Some key inland ports include:
- Port of Toronto: Situated on Lake Ontario, the Port of Toronto is Canada’s largest inland port and handles various types of cargo, including bulk goods, containers, and project cargo.
- Oil and Gas Terminals: Canada has specialized terminals for the import, export, and refining of petroleum products, supporting its energy sector. These terminals are located within seaports and along major oil and gas pipelines.
- Fishing Ports: Fishing is an important industry in Canada, and there are ports dedicated to fishing activities along the coast. These ports support the fishing industry and the processing of seafood products.
- Cruise Ports: Canada is a popular destination for cruise tourism, and several ports along the coast accommodate cruise ships, providing facilities for passengers and tourism activities.
List of Largest Ports in Canada
| Port Name | Types of Cargo Ships | Monthly Arrivals |
|---|---|---|
| Port of Vancouver | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 800-900 |
| Port of Montreal | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 700-800 |
| Port of Prince Rupert | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 300-400 |
| Port of Halifax | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 400-500 |
| Port of Quebec City | Bulk carriers, Container ships | 200-300 |
| Port of Saint John | Bulk carriers, Tankers, Container ships | 200-300 |
| Port of Hamilton | Bulk carriers, Container ships, Tankers | 150-200 |
| Port of Vancouver | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 800-900 |
| Port of Montreal | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 700-800 |
| Port of Prince Rupert | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 300-400 |
| Port of Halifax | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 400-500 |
| Port of Quebec City | Bulk carriers, Container ships | 200-300 |
| Port of Saint John | Bulk carriers, Tankers, Container ships | 200-300 |
| Port of Hamilton | Bulk carriers, Container ships, Tankers | 150-200 |
| Port of Vancouver | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 800-900 |
| Port of Montreal | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 700-800 |
| Port of Prince Rupert | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 300-400 |
| Port of Halifax | Container ships, Bulk carriers, Tankers | 400-500 |
| Port of Quebec City | Bulk carriers, Container ships | 200-300 |
| Port of Saint John | Bulk carriers, Tankers, Container ships | 200-300 |
| Port of Hamilton | Bulk carriers, Container ships, Tankers | 150-200 |
Major Ports of Canada
The ports of Canada, spanning across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic coasts, play integral roles in facilitating international trade, supporting economic growth, and connecting the country with global markets. From the bustling Port of Vancouver on the West Coast to the historic Port of Montreal on the St. Lawrence River, each port contributes to Canada’s status as a major player in the global maritime industry. With ongoing investments in infrastructure and logistics capabilities, Canada’s ports are poised to continue playing vital roles in the country’s economy and trade landscape.
1. Port of Vancouver
City Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Latitude: 49.2827° N
Longitude: -123.1207° W
Overview:
The Port of Vancouver is the largest and busiest port in Canada, situated on the west coast. It serves as a major gateway for trade between North America and Asia-Pacific countries. Handling various commodities including containers, bulk cargo, and automobiles, it contributes significantly to the economy. The port’s strategic location offers access to major highways and railways, facilitating efficient transportation.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Richmond | 15 | Highway 99 |
| Burnaby | 12 | Highway 1 |
| Surrey | 36 | Highway 1 |
| Delta | 25 | Highway 17 |
| New Westminster | 19 | Highway 1 |
| Coquitlam | 24 | Highway 1 |
| Langley | 41 | Highway 1 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Pacific Central Station, Vancouver (0 km)
- Waterfront Station, Vancouver (0 km)
- Port Coquitlam Station, Port Coquitlam (34 km)
- Surrey Central Station, Surrey (32 km)
- Maple Meadows Station, Maple Ridge (39 km)
2. Port of Montreal
City Location: Montreal, Quebec
Latitude: 45.5088° N
Longitude: -73.5540° W
Overview:
The Port of Montreal, located on the St. Lawrence River, is a vital transportation hub for Eastern Canada. It handles diverse cargo types, including containers, grain, and petroleum products. As Canada’s second-largest port, it plays a crucial role in international trade, with connections to Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Its proximity to major highways and railways facilitates efficient distribution across the region.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Laval | 26 | Highway 15 |
| Longueuil | 12 | Highway 20 |
| Brossard | 15 | Highway 20 |
| Repentigny | 31 | Highway 40 |
| Terrebonne | 37 | Highway 40 |
| Boucherville | 17 | Highway 20 |
| Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu | 53 | Highway 35 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Montreal Central Station, Montreal (0 km)
- Lucien-L’Allier Station, Montreal (0 km)
- Dorval Station, Dorval (21 km)
- Saint-Lambert Station, Saint-Lambert (11 km)
- Repentigny Station, Repentigny (29 km)
3. Port of Halifax
City Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia
Latitude: 44.6488° N
Longitude: -63.5752° W
Overview:
The Port of Halifax, situated on the east coast, is a major transshipment point for goods entering North America. It boasts deep-water berths capable of accommodating large vessels, making it an ideal port for container shipping and bulk cargo. With its strategic location, the port serves as a key link between North America, Europe, and Asia. Accessible via highways and railways, it facilitates seamless transportation across the region.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Dartmouth | 4 | Highway 111 |
| Bedford | 15 | Highway 102 |
| Lower Sackville | 21 | Highway 102 |
| Cole Harbour | 14 | Highway 107 |
| Bridgewater | 92 | Highway 103 |
| Truro | 94 | Highway 102 |
| Kentville | 106 | Highway 101 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Halifax Railway Station, Halifax (0 km)
- Dartmouth Railway Station, Dartmouth (5 km)
- Windsor Junction Railway Station, Windsor Junction (19 km)
- Truro Railway Station, Truro (96 km)
- New Glasgow Railway Station, New Glasgow (148 km)
4. Port of Prince Rupert
City Location: Prince Rupert, British Columbia
Latitude: 54.3122° N
Longitude: -130.3273° W
Overview:
The Port of Prince Rupert, located on the northern coast of British Columbia, is strategically positioned for transpacific trade. Known for its efficient operations and deep-water terminals, it serves as a key gateway for Asian imports and exports. The port specializes in handling bulk commodities, containers, and forest products. Its connectivity to major highways and railways enables efficient distribution across western Canada.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Terrace | 142 | Highway 16 |
| Kitimat | 63 | Highway 16 |
| Smithers | 354 | Highway 16 |
| Prince George | 714 | Highway 16 |
| Fort St. John | 1,087 | Highway 97 |
| Vancouver | 1,544 | Highway 16 |
| Edmonton | 1,433 | Highway 16 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Prince Rupert Station, Prince Rupert (0 km)
- Terrace Station, Terrace (142 km)
- Kitimat Station, Kitimat (63 km)
- Smithers Station, Smithers (354 km)
- Prince George Station, Prince George (714 km)
5. Port of Saint John
City Location: Saint John, New Brunswick
Latitude: 45.2733° N
Longitude: -66.0633° W
Overview:
The Port of Saint John, located on the Bay of Fundy, is Canada’s largest port by tonnage. It serves as a key hub for imports and exports, handling diverse cargo such as crude oil, forest products, and containers. With its deep-water facilities, the port accommodates large vessels and plays a crucial role in transatlantic trade. Its connectivity to highways and railways facilitates efficient transportation across the region.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Rothesay | 12 | Highway 1 |
| Quispamsis | 22 | Highway 1 |
| Hampton | 37 | Highway 1 |
| Sussex | 67 | Highway 1 |
| St. Stephen | 121 | Highway 1 |
| Fredericton | 106 | Highway 7 |
| Moncton | 224 | Highway 1 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Saint John Railway Station, Saint John (0 km)
- Rothesay Railway Station, Rothesay (12 km)
- Hampton Railway Station, Hampton (37 km)
- Sussex Railway Station, Sussex (67 km)
- Fredericton Railway Station, Fredericton (106 km)
6. Port of Quebec
City Location: Quebec City, Quebec
Latitude: 46.8139° N
Longitude: -71.2080° W
Overview:
The Port of Quebec, situated on the St. Lawrence River, is a key gateway for international trade in Eastern Canada. Handling various cargo types, including containers, grain, and petroleum products, it serves as an important transportation hub for the region. The port’s strategic location and deep-water terminals allow it to accommodate large vessels and facilitate efficient maritime operations. Accessible via highways and railways, it offers seamless connectivity for cargo distribution.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Lévis | 3 | Highway 20 |
| Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures | 23 | Highway 40 |
| Sainte-Foy | 14 | Highway 440 |
| Beauport | 7 | Highway 40 |
| Charlesbourg | 16 | Highway 40 |
| Stoneham | 35 | Highway 73 |
| Saint-Anne-de-Beaupré | 37 | Highway 40 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Quebec City Railway Station, Quebec City (0 km)
- Lévis Railway Station, Lévis (3 km)
- Saint-Augustin Railway Station, Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures (23 km)
- Sainte-Foy Railway Station, Sainte-Foy (14 km)
- Beauport Railway Station, Beauport (7 km)
7. Port of Saguenay
City Location: Saguenay, Quebec
Latitude: 48.4284° N
Longitude: -71.0657° W
Overview:
The Port of Saguenay, situated along the Saguenay River, is a key maritime gateway for Quebec’s northern region. Specializing in bulk cargo, particularly aluminum and forest products, it plays a vital role in the local economy. The port’s deep-water terminals accommodate large vessels, facilitating efficient shipping operations. Its connectivity to highways and railways ensures seamless transportation of goods across Quebec and beyond.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Jonquière | 10 | Highway 70 |
| Alma | 55 | Highway 170 |
| Chicoutimi | 3 | Highway 170 |
| La Baie | 6 | Highway 170 |
| Roberval | 146 | Highway 70 |
| Dolbeau-Mistassini | 206 | Highway 155 |
| Sept-Îles | 400 | Highway 172 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Bagotville Railway Station, La Baie (6 km)
- Chicoutimi Railway Station, Chicoutimi (3 km)
- Jonquière Railway Station, Jonquière (10 km)
- Alma Railway Station, Alma (55 km)
- Roberval Railway Station, Roberval (146 km)
8. Port of Trois-Rivières
City Location: Trois-Rivières, Quebec
Latitude: 46.3494° N
Longitude: -72.5470° W
Overview:
The Port of Trois-Rivières, located on the St. Lawrence River, is a key transportation hub in Central Quebec. Handling diverse cargo types, including grain, petroleum products, and general cargo, it serves as a vital link between the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. The port’s modern facilities and strategic location facilitate efficient maritime operations. Connected to major highways and railways, it offers seamless transportation solutions for goods movement.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Shawinigan | 63 | Highway 55 |
| Drummondville | 99 | Highway 55 |
| Saint-Hyacinthe | 124 | Highway 40 |
| Sorel-Tracy | 101 | Highway 40 |
| Nicolet | 23 | Highway 40 |
| Bécancour | 23 | Highway 40 |
| Victoriaville | 94 | Highway 55 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Trois-Rivières Railway Station, Trois-Rivières (0 km)
- Shawinigan Railway Station, Shawinigan (63 km)
- Drummondville Railway Station, Drummondville (99 km)
- Sorel-Tracy Railway Station, Sorel-Tracy (101 km)
- Bécancour Railway Station, Bécancour (23 km)
9. Port of Hamilton
City Location: Hamilton, Ontario
Latitude: 43.2557° N
Longitude: -79.8711° W
Overview:
The Port of Hamilton, situated on Lake Ontario, is a major hub for industrial and commercial activities in Ontario. Handling diverse cargo types, including steel, agricultural products, and bulk cargo, it plays a crucial role in the regional economy. The port’s modern facilities and efficient operations ensure seamless handling of goods. Connected to major highways and railways, it offers excellent connectivity for cargo distribution across Ontario and beyond.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Burlington | 10 | QEW |
| Oakville | 30 | QEW |
| Stoney Creek | 12 | Red Hill Valley Parkway |
| Grimsby | 39 | QEW |
| Brantford | 42 | Highway 403 |
| Niagara Falls | 73 | QEW |
| Mississauga | 59 | QEW |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Hamilton GO Centre, Hamilton (0 km)
- Aldershot GO Station, Burlington (10 km)
- West Harbour GO Station, Hamilton (2 km)
- Stoney Creek GO Station, Stoney Creek (12 km)
- Grimsby GO Station, Grimsby (39 km)
10. Port of Thunder Bay
City Location: Thunder Bay, Ontario
Latitude: 48.3809° N
Longitude: -89.2477° W
Overview:
The Port of Thunder Bay, situated on Lake Superior, is a key transportation gateway for Northwestern Ontario. Specializing in bulk cargo, particularly grain, it plays a vital role in Canada’s agricultural exports. The port’s modern facilities and deep-water terminals accommodate large vessels, facilitating efficient shipping operations. Connected to major highways and railways, it offers seamless transportation solutions for goods movement across the region.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Neebing | 12 | Highway 61 |
| Fort William | 7 | Highway 61 |
| Oliver Paipoonge | 18 | Highway 61 |
| Shuniah | 16 | Highway 11/17 |
| Terrace Bay | 230 | Highway 17 |
| Marathon | 296 | Highway 17 |
| Dryden | 339 | Highway 17 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Thunder Bay Station, Thunder Bay (0 km)
- Kakabeka Falls Station, Kakabeka Falls (25 km)
- Nipigon Station, Nipigon (104 km)
- White River Station, White River (300 km)
- Sioux Lookout Station, Sioux Lookout (378 km)
11. Port of Toronto
City Location: Toronto, Ontario
Latitude: 43.6511° N
Longitude: -79.3830° W
Overview:
The Port of Toronto, situated on Lake Ontario, is Canada’s largest freshwater port. It serves as a vital transportation hub for the Greater Toronto Area, handling diverse cargo types, including bulk cargo, containers, and project cargo. The port’s modern facilities and efficient operations ensure seamless handling of goods. Connected to major highways and railways, it offers excellent connectivity for cargo distribution across Ontario and beyond.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Mississauga | 31 | QEW |
| Oakville | 48 | QEW |
| Brampton | 41 | Highway 407 |
| Hamilton | 64 | QEW |
| Markham | 36 | Highway 404 |
| Vaughan | 29 | Highway 400 |
| Pickering | 41 | Highway 401 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Union Station, Toronto (0 km)
- Exhibition Station, Toronto (2 km)
- Mimico GO Station, Toronto (12 km)
- Malton GO Station, Mississauga (17 km)
- Brampton GO Station, Brampton (41 km)
12. Port of Churchill
City Location: Churchill, Manitoba
Latitude: 58.7684° N
Longitude: -94.1649° W
Overview:
The Port of Churchill, located on the shores of Hudson Bay, is Canada’s only Arctic deep-water port. It serves as a vital transportation link for Northern Manitoba, handling bulk commodities such as grain and minerals. Despite its remote location, the port plays a crucial role in Canada’s economy, particularly in facilitating exports to international markets. Its connectivity to railways provides a crucial lifeline for goods movement to and from the region.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Gillam | 271 | Highway 280 |
| Thompson | 391 | Highway 6 |
| Rankin Inlet | 1,350 | Coastal Route |
| Arviat | 1,150 | Coastal Route |
| Winnipeg | 1,175 | Highway 6 |
| Flin Flon | 691 | Highway 10 |
| The Pas | 833 | Highway 10 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Churchill Railway Station, Churchill (0 km)
- Gillam Railway Station, Gillam (271 km)
- Thompson Railway Station, Thompson (391 km)
- Flin Flon Railway Station, Flin Flon (691 km)
- The Pas Railway Station, The Pas (833 km)
13. Port of Sept-Îles
City Location: Sept-Îles, Quebec
Latitude: 50.2001° N
Longitude: -66.3820° W
Overview:
The Port of Sept-Îles, located on the north shore of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, is one of Canada’s largest iron ore ports. It plays a crucial role in the export of iron ore from the Labrador Trough region. Additionally, the port handles other bulk commodities such as aluminum and forest products. Its deep-water terminals and efficient operations ensure seamless handling of goods. Connected to major highways and railways, it offers excellent connectivity for cargo distribution across Quebec and beyond.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Port-Cartier | 60 | Highway 138 |
| Fermont | 213 | Highway 389 |
| Baie-Comeau | 222 | Highway 138 |
| Labrador City | 650 | Highway 389 |
| Rimouski | 388 | Highway 138 |
| Matane | 373 | Highway 138 |
| Québec City | 515 | Highway 138 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Sept-Îles Railway Station, Sept-Îles (0 km)
- Port-Cartier Railway Station, Port-Cartier (60 km)
- Baie-Comeau Railway Station, Baie-Comeau (222 km)
- Havre-Saint-Pierre Railway Station, Havre-Saint-Pierre (243 km)
- Chute-des-Passes Railway Station, Chute-des-Passes (280 km)
14. Port of Oshawa
City Location: Oshawa, Ontario
Latitude: 43.8975° N
Longitude: -78.8658° W
Overview:
The Port of Oshawa, situated on Lake Ontario, is a vital transportation hub for the Greater Toronto Area. Handling diverse cargo types, including steel, grain, and project cargo, it plays a crucial role in the regional economy. The port’s modern facilities and efficient operations ensure seamless handling of goods. Connected to major highways and railways, it offers excellent connectivity for cargo distribution across Ontario and beyond.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Whitby | 5 | Highway 401 |
| Ajax | 14 | Highway 401 |
| Pickering | 24 | Highway 401 |
| Clarington | 28 | Highway 401 |
| Bowmanville | 32 | Highway 401 |
| Port Perry | 36 | Highway 7 |
| Toronto | 56 | Highway 401 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Oshawa GO Station, Oshawa (0 km)
- Whitby GO Station, Whitby (5 km)
- Ajax GO Station, Ajax (14 km)
- Pickering GO Station, Pickering (24 km)
- Rouge Hill GO Station, Toronto (46 km)
15. Port of Nanaimo
City Location: Nanaimo, British Columbia
Latitude: 49.1659° N
Longitude: -123.9401° W
Overview:
The Port of Nanaimo, located on Vancouver Island, is a key transportation hub for the region. Handling diverse cargo types, including forest products, bulk cargo, and project cargo, it plays a vital role in the local economy. The port’s modern facilities and efficient operations ensure seamless handling of goods. Connected to major highways and railways, it offers excellent connectivity for cargo distribution across Vancouver Island and beyond.
| Nearby Cities | Distance (km) | Road (Highway) Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Ladysmith | 15 | Highway 1 |
| Parksville | 33 | Highway 19 |
| Duncan | 51 | Highway 1 |
| Courtenay | 152 | Highway 19 |
| Campbell River | 166 | Highway 19 |
| Victoria | 112 | Highway 1 |
| Port Alberni | 78 | Highway 4 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Nanaimo Station, Nanaimo (0 km)
- Ladysmith Station, Ladysmith (15 km)
- Parksville Station, Parksville (33 km)
- Duncan Station, Duncan (51 km)
- Port Alberni Station, Port Alberni (78 km)