A GOLDEN TRADITION: THE FIRST SHIP OF 2025 ARRIVES AT THE PORT OF QUÉBEC

Québec, January 4, 2025 — For the 190th consecutive year, the Port of Québec proudly celebrate the arrival of the first ocean-going vessel of the year from a foreign port. This year, the Castillo de Malpica, arriving from the United States, docked at the port’s quays at 6:48 a.m. on January 4, 2025. Indian Captain Tarapore Burgess Dadi, who commanded the vessel, was awarded the prestigious Golden-Headed Cane.

Established in 1835, the tradition of the Golden-Headed Cane dates to the achievement of shipbuilder John Munn, who was the first to cross the Atlantic aboard a steamship built in Québec. Welcomed in England with a gold-plated snuffbox to commemorate his feat, he brought the idea back to Québec, deciding to honour the captain of the first ship of the year to navigate the waters of the St. Lawrence River successfully. Over time, the snuffbox was replaced by the now-famous Golden-Headed Cane. This symbol of prosperity, wealth, and good fortune features a golden head, and a body made of cherry wood, a material reminiscent of Québec’s shipbuilding traditions.

“This maritime ceremony, perpetuated for nearly two centuries, is one of the most iconic in our industry. It reflects the timeless maritime spirit that drives the Port of Québec. We are proud to keep this tradition alive, highlighting not only the captain and crew’s expertise but also the maritime community’s outstanding teamwork, including pilots, tug operators, stevedores, and logisticians,” said Mario Girard.

The Castillo de Malpica, a vessel built in 2015, demonstrated remarkable skill in navigating the challenging waters of the St. Lawrence River, particularly during this winter. After a trip from the USA, it docked at the port, where it will be loading iron ore pellets. Around 6 million tons of iron is transshipped every year at the Port of Québec, which represents 118 times the iron used to make the Québec Bridge. Over 98% of iron is turned into steel (ex.: household appliances, infrastructure, car manufacturing, etc.). The ship will then head back to France.

The Port of Québec remains a hub of maritime activity, reaffirming its essential role in the region’s economic development and maritime culture. With its rich symbolism, the tradition of the Golden-Headed Cane perfectly illustrates this continuity and commitment to the future.

The Québec Port Authority, a non-profit organization, manages the port of Québec, which is strategically located to serve North America’s industrial and agricultural heartland. This Canadian hub for international trade for both the import and export of goods is the only port in the province of Québec with a fifteen-meter depth of water at low tide and a comprehensive intermodal infrastructure. The Port facilities generate 10,000 jobs and about two billion dollars in economic activity.

With its 2035 Vision, the Port of Québec aims to be recognized by citizens for the responsible management of its territory, respect for the environment and protection of biodiversity while positioning itself as a world leader in establishing sustainable supply chains for a more resilient economy.

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Frédéric Lagacé | Public Affairs and Communications Director

418 929-5031 | [email protected]