The Naval Renovation Program was negotiated and enacted in December 1904 and envisioned acquisition of large number of vessels, including a dozen destroyers.

She was powered by 2 triple expansion reciprocating steam engines, driving two shafts, which developed a total of 6,898 indicated horsepower (5,144 kW) and gave a maximum design speed of 27 knots (50 km/h; 31 mph).

Amazonas carried a maximum of 140 long tons (140 t) of coal that gave her a range of approximately 3,700 nautical miles (6,900 km; 4,300 mi) at 14 knots (26 km/h; 16 mph).

The official full speed trial for Amazonas took place on December 29, 1908 on the Skelmorlie deep-water measured mile at the mouth of the Clyde.

[7] The ship departed Recife for Bahia at approximately 16:00 on June 4, 1909 after re-coaling with intention of being put into drydock for repainting, cleaning and inspection.