Petrobras has launched a large-scale tender to charter up to 18 platform supply vessels as part of the national oil company’s efforts to develop new frontiers and expand production over the next three years.
The selection process will be in line with Petrobras’ usual closed-bid model, with the lowest price as the primary selection criteria, followed by an evaluation of each vessel’s technical specifications.
The deadline for proposal submissions is May 19 at 5:00 p.m., and the opportunity is open to both Brazilian and international flags.
The new tender for existing PSVs is expected to result in contracts totaling more than $800 million combined. Petrobras will reportedly give preference to contracting Brazilian-flagged vessels but also will allow bidders to offer foreign-flagged vessels.
The tender is for up to five general cargo PSVs, eight multipurpose or fluid carrier PSVs, two hybrid PSVs, and three multipurpose or fluid carrier PSVs on separate commencement dates. Deals for the vessels will have a duration of four years. All platform suppliers must have a deadweight of either 3,000 or 4,500 tonnes.
The first lot will start work in January 2026 or within 180 days after contract signing, while the second and third lot will begin their contracts in May 2026 or within 240 days after contract signing. The final lot is set to kick off their contracts in September 2026 or within 305 days after contract signing.
Petrobras currently has three other ongoing PSV tenders, which could bring the total to 26 new vessels contracted in the coming months.
According to Rio de Janeiro-based offshore brokerage WSB Advisors, this is the first time since 2023 that Petrobras has launched such a large tender. In 2023, the company launched tenders for 20 and 21 vessels. “This new opportunity is certainly a chance for companies that have been off the radar to re-engage with the market,” says Pedro Pellegrini, Intern Shipbroker at WSB Advisors.
As part of its efforts to expand production, Petrobras has reportedly increased its offshore E&P capex budget to $73.5 billion through the end of 2028. The company reportedly plans to have 14 additional FPSOs in place by 2028 and intends to drill 50 new wells by the end of that year as well.
