A newly constructed permanent docking pier has arrived at McMurdo Station, marking a major milestone in efforts to modernize logistics infrastructure supporting U.S. Antarctic research operations. The installation replaces the station’s traditional seasonal ice pier, which has long been used during annual resupply missions.
Built in Portland, the pier is engineered for durability in extreme polar conditions. Its raked hull design allows it to ride atop sea ice, providing more reliable and lower-maintenance mooring support for cargo vessels serving the largest research facility in Antarctica.
The structure completed a 9,159-nautical-mile voyage from the Pacific Northwest, towed by TradeWinds Towing over 69 days at an average speed of 5.5 knots. Weather routing in the Southern Ocean added four days to the journey, with seas reaching up to 30 feet during the final leg from New Zealand to Antarctica.
The permanent solution follows recent challenges with the traditional ice pier, which required temporary replacement. The new dock is expected to significantly improve the efficiency and resilience of the annual resupply mission supporting the U.S. Antarctic Program.
Icebreaking support for the mission continues to be provided by the United States Coast Guard vessel USCGC Polar Star, which maintains navigable access channels to the station through heavy sea ice.
