Baltimore, Maryland, January 30, 2026
Governor Wes Moore announced that the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore has set new records in cargo vessel visits and container activity for 2025. The port welcomed 2,223 cargo vessel visits, a 21% increase over the previous year. The Seagirt Marine Terminal processed over 1.1 million TEUs, surpassing its previous record by 5,000. Infrastructure investments and enhanced shipping services are pivotal to this growth, supporting Maryland’s economy and job creation, with the port’s economic impact exceeding $70 billion annually.
Port of Baltimore Sets New Records Under Governor Moore
Historic Achievements in Cargo and Container Activity
Baltimore, Maryland – In a remarkable demonstration of resilience and growth, Governor Wes Moore recently announced that the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore achieved record highs in total cargo vessel visits and container activity for 2025. This success follows the port’s significant recovery during 2024, which faced challenges after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. The collaborative efforts to restore the Fort McHenry shipping channel were crucial in navigating this adversity.
Record-Breaking Cargo Vessel Visits
In 2025, the Port of Baltimore welcomed 2,223 cargo vessel visits, which marks a significant rise of 21% compared to 2024 and a surpassing of the former record of 2,137 vessel visits set in 2023.
Container Activity Milestones
The Seagirt Marine Terminal achieved unparalleled results by processing 1,113,309 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2025, an increase of over 5,000 TEUs from the previous record in 2023. Furthermore, the terminal recorded 689 ship calls, nearly 100 more than in 2023, supported by an expanded weekly container service from 12 in 2024 to 15 in 2025.
Infrastructure Investments and Future Growth
The port is set for further enhancements with the anticipated completion of the CSX Howard Street Tunnel Project in 2026. This $518 million investment aims to allow access for double-stacked container trains, projected to increase the port’s capacity by an additional 160,000 containers annually and create almost 14,000 new jobs in Maryland.
Additional Achievements in 2025
- Carnival Cruise Line Contract Extension: Effective January 1, 2025, the Maryland Port Administration extended its contract with Carnival Cruise Line, securing year-round cruise service from Baltimore.
- Top Coast Guard Security Assessment: The port was awarded its 16th consecutive top security rating for state-owned public marine terminals, affirming its commitment to robust physical and cybersecurity measures.
- Arrival of Evergreen Ever Model: In November 2025, the port welcomed one of the largest ships to ever dock, the Evergreen Ever Model, capable of carrying over 15,000 TEUs.
- Mid-Bay Habitat Restoration Funding: The Maryland Port Administration successfully secured $72 million for an environmental restoration project focused on enhancing the Mid-Chesapeake Bay habitats.
Economic Impact
The Port of Baltimore is a vital component of Maryland’s economy, directly generating approximately 20,300 jobs. More than 273,000 jobs are indirectly linked to the port, contributing to an annual economic impact exceeding $70 billion. In 2024, the port led the nation in handling roll-on/roll-off farm and construction machinery, imported forest products, and gypsum, while also ranking second for autos, light trucks, salt, exported coal, and imported sugar. Nationally, the port stands at 10th for the dollar value of its cargo and 11th for total cargo tonnage.
Background
The recovery following the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in 2024 posed unique challenges. However, through determined teamwork and strategic measures to clear the Fort McHenry shipping channel, the Port of Baltimore has rebounded remarkably, culminating in record-breaking achievements in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What records did the Port of Baltimore set in 2025?
In 2025, the Port of Baltimore set new records for total cargo vessel visits and container activity, handling 2,223 cargo vessel visits and moving 1,113,309 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) through the Seagirt Marine Terminal.
How did the Port of Baltimore recover after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse?
The Port of Baltimore’s recovery was achieved through coordinated efforts to clear the Fort McHenry shipping channel, leading to the port’s historic recovery in 2024 and setting new records in 2025.
What is the economic impact of the Port of Baltimore?
The Port of Baltimore generates approximately 20,300 direct jobs, with more than 273,000 jobs overall in Maryland linked to the port, and an annual economic impact of more than $70 billion.
Key Features of the Port of Baltimore’s 2025 Achievements
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Record Cargo Vessel Visits | 2,223 visits, a 21% increase over 2024. |
| Container Activity | 1,113,309 TEUs moved through Seagirt Marine Terminal, exceeding 2023 record by over 5,000 TEUs. |
| Infrastructure Investment | Completion of CSX Howard Street Tunnel Project in 2026 to accommodate double-stacked container trains. |
| Carnival Cruise Line Contract Extension | Five-year extension effective January 1, 2025, ensuring year-round service from Baltimore. |
| Security Assessment | 16th consecutive top security rating for state-owned public marine terminals. |
| Arrival of Evergreen Ever Model | Second-largest ship to visit the port, capable of carrying over 15,000 TEUs. |
| Mid-Bay Habitat Restoration Funding | $72 million secured for environmental restoration project. |
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