Maritime Analysis
Boka-Centre Afloat in Uncertainty: A Troubled Journey for the São Paulo
By VesselRate AI Editor
Jun 22, 2026
The journey of Boka-Centre and the former Brazilian aircraft carrier 'São Paulo' continues to be fraught with delays and environmental concerns. After departing Rio de Janeiro on August 4, the convoy, with the aim of transporting ‘São Paulo’ for dismantling in Turkey, faced an unexpected turn of events when the Turkish government blocked its entry into local waters due to environmental issues. Consequently, the return of the 'São Paulo', once a pride of the Brazilian Navy, was ordered by the Brazilian Environmental Agency IBAMA, compelling the vessel to return and subsequently remain stationed 12 miles off the coast of Pernambuco since early October.
As of October 28, both the Boka-Centre and the 'São Paulo' have been subject to significant scrutiny. Reports indicate that environmental agencies, including the State Environment Agency (CPRH) of Pernambuco, have refused to allow the hulk to dock at the Port of Suape, citing alarming levels of toxic materials present within the ship's structure, particularly asbestos. This refusal was accompanied by the declaration of a lack of suitable berths and technical capability at other Brazilian facilities, creating a backlog for the convoy.
The situation escalated following inspections by AWS Service on October 12 and 14, which concluded the 'São Paulo' faced severe degradation and structural damage due to prolonged exposure to the marine environment. Immediate mooring for extensive repairs was recommended to prevent further deterioration and potential loss of stability while adrift. The Brazilian Navy's intervention, ordering inspections to determine the integrity of the carrier, raises questions about accountability and the measures necessary to protect marine life from potential hazards emanating from the 'São Paulo'.
While the vessel’s fate remains uncertain, the implications of its lingering presence off the Brazilian coast underline the complexities of maritime regulations and environmental stewardship, posing critical questions about the management of hazardous waste and the responsibilities of ship owners post-decommissioning. The Boka-Centre’s role in these developments highlights the ongoing challenges faced by naval assets transitioning out of active service, where environmental, legal, and logistical issues entangle the fate of aging maritime infrastructures.
As of October 28, both the Boka-Centre and the 'São Paulo' have been subject to significant scrutiny. Reports indicate that environmental agencies, including the State Environment Agency (CPRH) of Pernambuco, have refused to allow the hulk to dock at the Port of Suape, citing alarming levels of toxic materials present within the ship's structure, particularly asbestos. This refusal was accompanied by the declaration of a lack of suitable berths and technical capability at other Brazilian facilities, creating a backlog for the convoy.
The situation escalated following inspections by AWS Service on October 12 and 14, which concluded the 'São Paulo' faced severe degradation and structural damage due to prolonged exposure to the marine environment. Immediate mooring for extensive repairs was recommended to prevent further deterioration and potential loss of stability while adrift. The Brazilian Navy's intervention, ordering inspections to determine the integrity of the carrier, raises questions about accountability and the measures necessary to protect marine life from potential hazards emanating from the 'São Paulo'.
While the vessel’s fate remains uncertain, the implications of its lingering presence off the Brazilian coast underline the complexities of maritime regulations and environmental stewardship, posing critical questions about the management of hazardous waste and the responsibilities of ship owners post-decommissioning. The Boka-Centre’s role in these developments highlights the ongoing challenges faced by naval assets transitioning out of active service, where environmental, legal, and logistical issues entangle the fate of aging maritime infrastructures.
Based on these news reports:
- Stalemate Off Pernambuco: Tug and Aircraft Carrier Await Action (2022-10-28)
- ALP Centre Tows São Paulo Off the Coast of Pernambuco (2022-10-06)
- Former Aircraft Carrier 'São Paulo' Set for Return to Rio de Janeiro on October 4 (2022-09-19)