The Government of São Paulo, Brazil, has initiated a new phase in the operation and modernisation of its Coastal Crossings (Travessias Litorâneas) network through a 20-year concession agreement with AcquaVias SP. The concession covers 14 ferry and waterway crossings and involves planned investments of approximately R$2.5 billion (US$450 million) over the contract period. The programme aims to improve the quality, safety, reliability and capacity of waterborne public transport services across the state. The network serves the Baixada Santista, North Coast, South Coast, Metropolitan Region of São Paulo and Paraíba Valley, transporting approximately 11 million passengers and 10 million vehicles annually.

Under the concession, AcquaVias SP will be responsible for operating the crossing network and implementing a comprehensive fleet and infrastructure modernisation programme. The planned works include the introduction of 45 new vessels, more than 40 of which will be electric-powered, as well as the construction or expansion of 20 passenger terminals. The project will also involve establishing operational control centres, constructing new maintenance workshops, installing automatic toll collection facilities and introducing upgraded automation, monitoring and security systems. The fleet renewal will be carried out gradually, with the first new vessels expected to enter service from the third year of the concession.

The concession follows several years of investment by the state government to restore and improve the existing ferry infrastructure. Between 2023 and 2026, the government allocated approximately R$240 million towards vessel rehabilitation, terminal improvements, equipment replacement and operational management. This included R$149.9 million for the renovation of 23 vessels, R$38.2 million for the acquisition of engines and reversers, and R$44.42 million for eight completed terminal construction projects. Further works, including the construction of the Cananéia Station and dredging at Ilhabela, were also reported as ongoing.

The project is expected to increase fleet availability, reduce waiting times and improve the frequency and reliability of ferry services, particularly during peak travel periods. The state government reported that average fleet availability had increased from 60.9% in 2024 to approximately 80% in 2026, following its earlier recovery programme. The introduction of additional vessels and upgraded infrastructure is expected to further strengthen operational capacity and improve passenger experience across the network.

The concession contract will be regulated and monitored by the São Paulo State Transport Agency (ARTESP), which will oversee compliance with contractual requirements and service standards. The Government of São Paulo, through Semil and its Investment Partnerships Programme (PPI), is overseeing the transition and wider modernisation initiative, while AcquaVias SP will lead the concession operations and planned improvements. Overall, the programme represents a long-term investment in the state's waterborne transport infrastructure, with a focus on fleet electrification, infrastructure renewal, operational efficiency and more sustainable public transport services.