São Paulo Pilotage Service Sets Record for Ship Maneuver Assignments Amidst Fog Disruptions

The Pilotage service, with its complete expertise, once again demonstrated its adaptability this winter, effectively minimizing disruptions in port operations despite the long periods of fog. As soon as maritime authorities announce the reopening of maneuvers, a comprehensive and well-planned maneuvering strategy is put into action to resume operations as quickly as possible.

During this period, the Pilotage service managed 70 ships within 24 hours, double the daily average. This required 74 pilot assignments, as four vessels over 300 meters in length each needed two pilots.

According to data from the Santos Port Authority (APS), port closures totaled 161 hours and 30 minutes this year, more than double the 80 hours recorded in 2023. Closures occur during intense fog or other adverse weather conditions, holding ships at the dock and harbor.

When navigation resumes, the C3OT of Pilotage meticulously plans maneuvers, clears berths for ships waiting in the harbor, and sets priorities for those dependent on tides. The assigned pilots work almost continuously to reduce ship owners’ costs and expedite port operations.

With ongoing training for professionals and online monitoring of the entire Navigation Channel by the Coordination, Communications, and Traffic Operations Center, the Pilotage service has the capacity to handle up to 80 maneuvers daily.

“We always work proactively to anticipate problems,” says Fabio Mello Fontes, President of São Paulo Pilotage. “Our job is to mitigate risks during various maneuvers, using maximum and minimum parameters to ensure safety and efficiency, especially in unexpected adverse weather conditions, as we’ve experienced in our region.”

“Santos is a multi-cargo port, receiving ships loaded from all parts of the world, each time larger and heavier. We work with all involved parties to optimize the use of our port within its limitations, minimizing idle time at the berth,” adds Bruno Tavares, vice president of the organization.

“We want the port to grow, continue to produce, and continually optimize operations and the complex dynamics. The Pilotage service is here to assist in this assessment. We must always perform in the best and safest manner possible,” concludes Fontes.

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