She was powered by 2 triple expansion reciprocating steam engines, driving two shafts, which developed a total of 8,554 indicated horsepower (6,379 kW) and gave a maximum design speed of 27 knots (50 km/h; 31 mph).

Sergipe 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 Sergipe took place on July 8, 1910 on the Skelmorlie deep-water measured mile at the mouth of the Clyde.

During a continuous three hour run with a 100 ton load, the ship exceeded her contract speed of 27 knots.

[5] Sergipe left Yarrow's yard at Glasgow on October 24, 1910 to start her voyage to Brazil.