Long-distance shipping operations have officially resumed at the Port of Porto Alegre (RS), now operating with an authorised draft of 5.18 meters. This achievement marks an important milestone in the port’s recovery and coincides with the reinstatement of night navigation — a practice that had been inactive for more than 42 years.
Long-distance navigation was authorised as of 15 January, and night navigation is being gradually reintroduced, with full operational capacity expected by June 2026.
The resumption follows two challenging years since the severe flooding in May 2024, which affected both inland waterways and the port’s land infrastructure. The event halted the passage of large vessels and temporarily suspended commercial dock operations at Porto Alegre. In the aftermath, Portos RS, the company responsible for managing the ports of Rio Grande do Sul, coordinated recovery efforts, including dredging access channels and improving port structures to enhance operations
With these improvements, the Port of Porto Alegre reopens a new chapter for regional and international trade, reinforcing its role as a key gateway for long-haul shipping in southern Brazil.