Executive Director and CEO Phyllis Saathoff, representatives from Höegh
Autoliners, Mitsubishi Motors North America and AMPORTS, along with
the Master of the Höegh Sunrise, commemorate the vesselâs inaugural call
to Port Freeport with a plaque presentation at Berths 1 and 2 on Wednesday,
July 1, 2026.
Port Freeport welcomed the Höegh Sunrise during its inaugural call on 1 July, marking another milestone in the port’s long-standing partnership with Höegh Autoliners.
Port officials, representatives from Höegh Autoliners, Mitsubishi Motors North America, AMPORTS, and the vessel’s master marked the occasion with an inaugural plaque presentation at Berths 1 and 2.
The arrival of the Höegh Sunrise reinforces Port Freeport’s role as a key gateway for the automotive industry along the Texas Gulf Coast.
The port handled 198,475 vehicles during fiscal year 2025, reflecting continued growth in its automotive business.
Port Freeport said it continues to invest in infrastructure and operations to support larger vessels and future growth.
Rob Giesecke, Chairman of the Port Freeport Commission, said the inaugural call reflects the strong partnership between Port Freeport and Höegh Autoliners.
He added that the collaboration continues to support regional economic growth and international trade.
Port Freeport and Höegh Autoliners have worked together since 2015 to expand vehicle movements through the Gulf Coast.
The Höegh Sunrise is the fifth vessel in Höegh Autoliners’ Aurora Class fleet.
The vessel can carry up to 9,100 car equivalent units (CEUs). It is also certified as ammonia-ready and methanol-ready, supporting the industry’s transition to lower-emission shipping.
Jazmieka Smith, Key Account Manager at Höegh Autoliners, said the vessel’s first call highlights the strong partnership with Port Freeport.
She added that the port’s investments support the next generation of automotive logistics and more sustainable deep-sea shipping.
Port Freeport also highlighted the completion of the Freeport Harbor Channel Improvement Project, which allows the port to accommodate larger vessels while improving navigational safety.
Phyllis Saathoff, Executive Director and CEO of Port Freeport, said the infrastructure investments position the port to meet changing customer needs and support future growth in global trade.