Special WSB: Starnav Elektra in details

By Rafael Bortoloti

Detroit Brasil shipyard, located in Itajaí (Santa Catarina), launched the vessel Starnav Elektra at the end of March, a new asset for Starnav. Currently in the final commissioning phase, including lighting, finishing, and system testing, the vessel is scheduled for delivery in July 2026. More than expanding the fleet, the project represents a strategic and technological step forward for the company.

Classified as a PSV, Starnav Elektra stands out for its larger dimensions compared to the company’s other PSVs. It features 5,500 tons of deadweight and approximately 1,000 m² of free deck area, distributed across 92.1 meters in length and 20 meters in beam—an increase of 2.1 meters and 1 meter, respectively, over other units. The vessel can accommodate up to 42 people and is equipped with a DP2 dynamic positioning system, essential for safe offshore operations.

The main propulsion system consists of two Schottel azimuth thrusters, each rated at 2,500 kW, a configuration already well established within the fleet. The key differentiator, however, lies in the incorporation of more advanced technologies.

The project includes a hybrid propulsion system, featuring a battery bank supplied by WEG with a capacity of 1,320 kW. The engines comply with IMO Tier III standards and operate with an SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system aimed at reducing and monitoring NOx emissions. The vessel is also equipped with advanced systems for controlling and monitoring fuel consumption, aligned with increasing demands for energy efficiency.

Another highlight is its enhanced maneuverability, with three 1,200 kW bow thrusters, improving performance in complex operations. Starnav Elektra will be the first hybrid vessel built in Brazil and the first to operate with the Hybrid notation from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS).

BNDES financing and long-term charter

In December 2024, Starnav signed a contract to supply six PSVs to Petrobras, with Starnav Elektra leading the package. The charter will last 12 years, with operations of the first vessel expected to begin this year. The construction of the remaining units will follow a serial production model, with each project starting upon delivery of the previous one and requiring 40% local content at least.

At the same time, the partnership between Starnav and Detroit secured a contract for the construction of four OSRVs, the first of this type in the company’s fleet, all based on the same hull design developed by Detroit.

As a result, the fleet is expected to grow from 18 to 28 vessels in the short term, including 24 PSVs and 4 OSRVs. As with Starnav Elektra, these projects benefit from significant financing from a important financial agent, the BNDES/FMM, reflecting market confidence in the company’s execution capability.

“These new units incorporate cutting-edge technologies and reinforce our commitment to sustainable and innovative practices. They meet the highest ESG standards and are expected to generate around 11,000 direct and indirect jobs,” said Magda Chambriard, president of Petrobras at the time.

Currently, Starnav operates 18 PSV 4,500 vessels in its fleet, all DP2, with 17 built in Brazil at its own shipyard. The exception is Starnav Aquarius. The fleet is expected to reach 28 vessels in the near future