THE MARINE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM. IN: HANDBOOK OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING

Abstract

This chapter describes the role of the marine transportation systems (MTS) within a context of more familiar transportation modes like automobile, trucking and rail. Using this context, the role and complexity of the MTS can be better understood. The waterway network may not have rail track or asphalt defining its limits and extent, but navigable waterways are more like highways than an uncharted horizon. Specific features unique to the MTS will be summarized, including fleet characteristics for vessels engaged in cargo transportation, fishing, or other services. Like any broad system of different vehicles and destinations, the MTS cannot be summarized by only one or two images of ships. Diversity in vessel technologies, national fleet ownership and registration, and concentration of trade activity all affect the way the MTS is managed by industry and regulated by government. This diversity is driven by trends in the transportation system toward increasing global trade in an era where governments and businesses are requiring greater transparency in the MTS to foster commerce and satisfy security and environmental objectives.