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 6,563 indicated horsepower (4,894 kW) and gave a maximum design speed of 27 knots (50 km/h; 31 mph).

Piauí 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).

Upon completion of sea trials, Piauí was officially delivered to the Brazilian government on December 21, 1908, with Captain Pedro de Frontin serving as her commander.

On January 30 she sailed out from Las Palmas for Cabo Verde, arriving in St. Vicente on February 1.