Port of Virginia expands berth capacity for ultra-large containerships

The port is preparing for future ship sizes by ensuring readiness across its cargo yards, truck gates, rail ramps, and shipping channels. The increase in berth capacity for ultra-large vessels coincides with ongoing dredging projects to deepen Norfolk Harbour and commercial shipping channels to 55 feet (16.7 metres).

This dredging work, which will make the location the deepest port on the US East Coast, is scheduled for completion by the end of February 2026. The Virginia Port Authority noted that a fifth berth for ultra-large container vessels is expected to come online in 2027.

McCoy remarked that the channels are wide enough to facilitate two-way ULCV traffic. When the deepened channel opens in February, the Virginia Port Authority indicated that vessels will be able to call without overhead obstructions or channel congestion.