Svitzer's Brazilian Expansion: Unveiling Port Opportunities

Svitzer, a leading global towage and marine services provider, has recently expanded its presence in Brazil by commencing operations in the Port of Itaqui in São Luís, Maranhão. This strategic move marks another significant milestone for Svitzer in its ongoing expansion across Brazil, reflecting the company's commitment to the Brazilian market and its long-term growth ambitions. With a fleet of 22 tugboats and three additional ASD vessels under construction, Svitzer is well-positioned to strengthen its presence along the Brazilian coast and enhance operational safety and efficiency in the country's vital port complexes.

The Port of Itaqui, located in one of Brazil's largest port complexes, is a critical logistical hub for the Central-North and Central Brazil corridors. With advanced infrastructure, including grain and fuel storage, deep berths for large vessels, and multimodal transport connections, the port plays a vital role in regional and national economic development. By entering the Port of Itaqui, Svitzer continues its growth trajectory in Brazil, further strengthening its position in the country and supporting the economic growth of Brazil's vital port complexes.

Svitzer's entry into Maranhão is supported by two high-performance tugboats, the Svitzer Denise and Svitzer Joaquim R, which are tailored to meet the operational demands of the ports of Itaqui, Ponta da Madeira, and Alumar. These modern Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) models, with static bollard pulls of 72 and 76 tonnes, respectively, are designed to provide safe, efficient manoeuvring and an ideal outset for serving customers in the port effectively. The vessels' firefighting capabilities (FiFi 1) further enhance the overall safety and security of the ports and surrounding areas.

Svitzer's commitment to workforce development and advanced tugboat technology contributes to its long-term sustainability in Brazil. The company invests in continuous training programs across its Brazilian ports, ensuring its employees are equipped with the latest skills to handle evolving maritime operations safely and efficiently. Additionally, the company's focus on investing in modern, highly efficient equipment, such as the ASD tugboats tailored to meet the operational demands of the ports, demonstrates its dedication to enhancing operational safety and efficiency.

The acquisition of modern tugboats like Svitzer Denise and Svitzer Joaquim R enhances Svitzer's competitiveness in the Brazilian market by delivering high-performance operations. These vessels are designed for safe and efficient manoeuvring, minimizing fuel consumption and emissions. Their construction at the Rio Maguari shipyard in Belém, Pará, supports local expertise and resources, contributing to the development of Brazil's maritime infrastructure.


In conclusion, Svitzer's entry into the Port of Itaqui in São Luís, Maranhão, is a strategic move that underscores the company's long-term commitment to the Brazilian market. With a fleet of modern tugboats and a focus on workforce development and advanced technology, Svitzer is well-positioned to enhance operational safety and efficiency in Brazil's vital port complexes. As the Brazilian economy continues to flourish, Svitzer remains dedicated to strengthening its position in the country, investing in its people and modern, highly efficient equipment.