Brazilian state energy company Petrobras has begun offering barge-delivered bunker fuel at the Port of Suape, marking an expansion of its supply network within Brazil, according to Ship & Bunker.
According to Ship & Bunker, Petrobras confirmed in a customer note last week that it is now fully operational to supply Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) via barge to berthed vessels at the port. The company stated it has already carried out two successful deliveries to its own vessels since receiving its final operational licences.
“This represents an important expansion of our supply network in Brazil,” Petrobras said in the note, as cited by Ship & Bunker. “Following the issuance of our final operational licenses, we have already completed two successful deliveries for our own vessels, confirming the quality and reliability of our service.”
Service Limited to Berthed Vessels
Ship & Bunker reports that Petrobras has clarified the new barge service is currently restricted to vessels that are berthed at Suape. The company explained that the port lacks an inner anchorage, meaning off-port-limits (OPL) anchorage deliveries are not available at this time.
According to Petrobras’ website, as referenced by Ship & Bunker, the company previously supplied bunker fuel at Suape via pipeline rather than barge.
Does This Matter to You?
For vessels calling at Suape, the introduction of barge-based bunkering adds a new delivery method alongside the port’s existing pipeline supply option. This may be relevant for operators and charterers planning port calls or fuel procurement in the region, as it could affect scheduling and logistics for berthed vessels seeking VLSFO or LSMGO.
However, the source material makes clear that the service does not yet extend to anchorage deliveries due to the absence of an inner anchorage at the port. Vessels requiring OPL bunkering at Suape would therefore need to explore alternative arrangements. Beyond these operational details, the source does not provide further information on pricing, capacity, or timelines for potential future expansion of the service.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
