First saltie arrives in Duluth on Monday morning

DULUTH, MN – The first saltie of the 2025-2026 maritime year arrived in Duluth Monday morning and was celebrated by Twin Ports officials.

It’s an annual tradition that signals the end of winter and the ice that prevents easy travel on the Great Lakes. This year, the bulk carrier Federal Nagara claimed the honor. She is 656 feet long and carries a load of sugar beet processing equipment bound for the Red River Valley. It was transported from Bremer, Germany.

Capt. R.C. Sanjeewa was presented gifts from officials representing the port, the cities of Duluth and Superior and the area news media. Sanjeewa said he is familiar with the Twin Ports, having been here with the Fednav-owned vessel several times in past years.

Kristi Osheim won the first vessel contest, sponsored by Visit Duluth, guessing the arrival time within 38 second of when the ship actually entered the port.

Business North

Two groups offer raffles for trips on the Edwin H. Gott

The Lake Superior Marine Museum Association and The Soo Locks Visitors’ Center Association are raffling off a round-trip cruise on the 1,000-footer Edwin H. Gott.

Visit these websites or see fliers in the gallery below.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1052918876872355&set=a.458641912966724
https://www.lsmma.com/