The Port of Thunder Bay has officially opened for the shipping season.

The first ship of the season the M.V. Harvest Spirit has arrived at the port marking the second year in a row the ship has arrived first.

The ship’s crew was recognized at a Top Hat Ceremony held at Richardson International’s Main Elevator on Sunday.

The ship arrived in Thunder Bay on Saturday crossing the breakwall at 5:40 p.m. tying a 2008 record for the earliest opening date and time the port has on record.

The McKeil-owned vessel also became the second ship to receive the Top Hat honour after also being the final vessel to depart port and close the prior shipping season in January.

The Top Hat Ceremony marked the first domestic ship to arrive at the port and another ceremony will be held when the first international vessel arrives.