The dredging project to deepen and widen the external access channel to the Ports of São Francisco do Sul and Itapoá will increase the depth from the current 14 meters to 16 meters, allowing the navigation of vessels up to 366 meters in length. Currently, the port complex accommodates ships up to 336 meters long.

Governor Jorginho Mello signed a protocol of intentions in June to seek alternatives for the expansion and deepening of the access channel to the Baía da Babitonga. The ports of São Francisco do Sul and Itapoá are part of the agreement, which involves defining financing models, environmental licenses, contracting, execution, and monitoring of the works. This protocol is the first step in funding the project, estimated at approximately R$ 300 million, a pioneering model in Brazil.

The governor emphasized that this step is crucial for increasing the potential of the northern ports. “We are providing all our support and effort to advance with the licenses and other processes to execute this project. We aim to deliver two major works: the widening of the Baía da Babitonga and the expansion of Itapoá Beach,” highlighted Jorginho Mello.

The dredging project will deepen and widen the external access channel to the ports of São Francisco do Sul and Itapoá, increasing the depth from the current 14 meters to 16 meters, allowing the navigation of vessels up to 366 meters in length. Currently, the port complex accommodates ships up to 336 meters long. Part of the dredged sand will be used to widen the beach in Itapoá, which has suffered from coastal erosion in recent years. This will be the first time in Brazil that sediments from port dredging will be used to expand a beach.

Cleverton Vieira, president of the Port of São Francisco do Sul, emphasizes the importance of this project for Santa Catarina, as it will preserve the state’s unique logistics condition, maintaining current cargo and attracting new business. “This generates revenue, income, and development for the state, allowing Porto Itapoá to receive the largest container ships navigating the Brazilian coast. For the Port of São Francisco, the project ensures greater navigation safety and efficiency gains in handling large-draft vessels, both bulk carriers and general cargo,” said Vieira.

For Cássio José Schreiner, president of Porto Itapoá, this project will result in more income, job creation, and further development of the entire region. “This project will bring significant advances in port operations in the coming years. The strong industry in Santa Catarina needs this infrastructure to export its production,” noted Schreiner.