Optimization of Świnoujście port areas and approach channel parameters for safe operation of 300-meter bulk carriers

This article presents the optimized parameters of the Świnoujście seaport entrance and three-kilometer fairway linking Świnoujście and Szczecin, extended to allow the safe entry of 300-meter bulk carriers drawing up to 13.5 meters. The parameters were determined by a simulation-based optimization method, where the objective function and its constraint were, respectively, the reconstruction costs of that waterway section and the vessels’ navigation safety. The study made use of real-time simulation in coordination with the vessel’s human operator.