Dimensions οf inland ships in relation to the parameters of waterways : the case of Poland

Abstract

PURPOSE: The article focuses on the analysis of the relation between the guaranteed parameters of the waterway and the dimensions of the inland ships. This article focuses on the consideration of how the change of the allowable ship draft affects the value of the efficiency index.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: In this way, it was obtained that the transport efficiency is linearly dependent on the draft of the vessel, so if, despite the possibility of loading the vessel into allowable draft, it is impossible due to the parameters of the waterways, the overall transport efficiency may decrease to a greater extent. Changes in load capacity is another factor influencing the effectiveness of the use of inland ships in the conditions of their operation on Polish inland waterways.

FINDINGS: The study analyzes the impact of this parameter on the shipowners decisions regarding investment in fleet maintenance.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATION: The results of the research will help to achieve the means of water transport to the limited ones in the way of natural or technical parameters of the infrastructure of Polish waters.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The results of the research complement the current knowledge on matching the parameters of specific inland vessels that provide services on a given route with the parameters of inland waterways, taking into account the dynamics of occurring negative changes on Polish waterways.