Optimising ship manoeuvring time during port approach using a decision support system: a case study in Turkey

Any cost reductive initiative is significant to contribute to the overall viability and economic sustainability of the industry. Therefore, it is worthy to study time and cost efficiency of ship manoeuvring when approaching the port. This study develops a decision support system model by utilising a goal programming integrated ship manoeuvring methodology, which examines ship and environmental variables concerning manoeuvring. A case study was then carried out using 2 different container ships approaching Gemport berths in Turkey, to show the practical applicability of the methodology. The results of the case study showed that it would be possible to reduce manoeuvring time in approaching the port from 31.6 min to 27.36 min in ship I and from 59 min to 48.05 min in ship II. These results are significant as they can provide cost efficiency for ship owners and port authorities, especially when we consider its applicability for the entire world merchant marine fleet.