First Supersized Cargo Ship Arrives In Port Of Baltimore

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The Panama Canal, the man-made waterway at the heart of international shipping trade, was recently expanded, doubling its capacity for cargo.

The first supersized container ship to travel through the modernized canal -- which had already connected the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans for more than a century -- has completed the 4,000 mile trek to the Port of Baltimore.

The Evergreen Ever Lambent hails from Taiwan and can carry more than 8,400 cargo containers, twice what a normal ship can haul.

"It marks a new era that will keep the port of Baltimore steaming ahead in the forefront of International commerce," says Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger.

"This guarantees the future of the Port of Baltimore," Senator Barbara Mikulski says.

The megaship has 75 cranes, which means it can handle more cargo. Port workers tell WJZ they hope that translates into more work opportunities.

"I'm looking forward to the door being opened for a lot of people in the city," worker Shamia Elliott says. "We need that."

According to Evergreen's president, larger vessels are also more cost and fuel efficient.

"All around good for the environment, good for the customers, good for Evergreen," says Roy Amalfitano.

And it could also be a big win for the city. Baltimore is one of only three east coast ports that can handle the "super ships."

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