Port of São Sebastião announces new draft increase

The Port of São Sebastião, on the northern coast of São Paulo state, has increased its maximum operating draft, allowing vessels to carry heavier loads when calling at the terminal.

The change was formalized on Wednesday (24) by the São Sebastião Port Authority in coordination with Brazil’s maritime authority. The port’s maximum operating draft rose from 8.7 meters to 9.1 meters, regardless of tidal conditions. During rising tide, the draft may reach 9.5 meters, provided a 0.70-meter under-keel safety clearance is maintained.

Although technical, the change has direct commercial implications. Greater draft allows ships to load more cargo per voyage, reducing transport costs per unit and improving terminal productivity. In a port sector where small operational gains can affect route economics, the increase gives São Sebastião a stronger competitive position.

São Sebastião already benefits from a natural advantage: its access channel is deep and sheltered by coastal formations, reducing the need for frequent dredging. That helps lower operating costs over time and makes the port more attractive for larger-scale cargo operations.

In a logistics market increasingly focused on efficiency, the port’s ability to receive vessels with heavier loads becomes an important differentiator for companies seeking more regular service and lower maritime transport costs.

Ernesto Sampaio, president of Companhia Docas de São Sebastião, said the approval is an important step in the port’s expansion strategy. He said the higher draft means more cargo per trip, greater logistics efficiency and stronger competitiveness, while also helping the port attract new cargo flows.

The new draft limit was published on Wednesday and is already in effect. The port authority expects the measure to support cargo growth in the region, benefiting the local economy and São Paulo state’s logistics chain.

Source: Diário do Estado de S. Paulo

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