Port of Itaqui and Transpetro Conduct Ship-to-Ship Operations Test at Berth 108

On Friday, February 21, the Port of Itaqui, in partnership with Transpetro, took a major step forward by testing Ship-to-Ship (STS) operations at Berth 108. This procedure, which can cut operational time by up to one-third, marks another advance in the port’s efficiency. STS transfers involve the direct transfer of cargo between vessels, either offshore or alongside a berth.

The test operation, conducted between the vessels STI Jardins and Elandra Star, was carried out without cargo and confirmed the safety and feasibility of STS transfers at Berth 108. “This test represents another milestone in the Port of Itaqui’s push for efficiency and innovation. It expands our operational capacity, enhances competitiveness, and optimizes logistics. We remain committed to modernizing the port, driving regional development, and solidifying our position among Brazil’s top public ports,” said Isa Mary Mendonça, acting president of the Port of Itaqui.

According to Adauto Serpa, the port’s operations manager, the test was critical for securing future authorizations. “Today, we demonstrated that the operation is safe. Our goal is to obtain approvals from both the Brazilian Navy and the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Biofuels (ANP) so we can fully implement STS operations and increase cargo throughput,” he stated.

The Port of Itaqui’s first-ever STS operation took place on September 6, 2023, at Berth 106, when the vessel Romulo Almeida moored alongside the Torm Helene to transfer 31,000 cubic meters of S10 diesel. Since then, the port has completed 28 STS operations.

A Growing Fuel Hub

Year after year, the Port of Itaqui continues to strengthen its role as one of Brazil’s key hubs for receiving and distributing petroleum derivatives, handling diesel, gasoline, aviation kerosene (Jet A-1), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and marine gas oil (MGO) from both domestic and international suppliers. “Itaqui is now one of Transpetro’s most strategic ports and plays a crucial role for Petrobras. This is the busiest diesel-handling port in the country, and as the market leader in Ship-to-Ship operations, Transpetro sees Itaqui as a key part of our logistics network,” said José Carlos, sector manager for Transpetro’s São Luís terminal.

Expanding Capacity

The implementation of STS operations at Berth 106 in 2023 resulted in significant productivity gains and reduced demurrage costs, increasing the competitiveness of port operations. With Berth 108 now in play, the Port of Itaqui is set to boost its logistical efficiency even further. The addition of another berthing position will enable two simultaneous STS operations, further enhancing throughput and optimizing fuel logistics at the port.

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