Port of Saint John positions itself as East Coast gateway

Advocates say the Port of Saint John could emerge as a serious East Coast contender if it expands its global service connections and continues investing in larger-ship capabilities. Photo by Twelve O'Clock High Drone Services/BNI Brunswick News files

The Port of Saint John is used to taking a back seat to Montreal and Halifax, but advocates say it could emerge as a serious East Coast contender if it expands its global service connections and continues investing in larger-ship capabilities.

“Saint John can grow its business by moving into more international services, not only connecting the North Atlantic as it does today, and by ensuring the draft is deep enough to handle larger ships,” Peter Sand, chief analyst at maritime analytics firm Xeneta AS, said.

The New Brunswick port, opera