Standardization of the main dimensions of design ships for the Caspian Sea ports

Determination of the main dimensions of a nominated design ship is among the most important parameters when planning a port or performing port infrastructure detailed design. In this regard, port designers commonly use standards and handbooks. Inaccurate estimation of ship dimensions can increase the construction cost of a quay for the most-frequent ship of the area or decrease port efficiency. In some cases, main characteristics of the ship are affected by site-specific conditions. Owing to this fact, aforementioned general approach for all regions may not be accurate. In other words, a comprehensive statistical analysis on ship dimensions in such areas could be of great significance, to fill this knowledge gap. Caspian Sea, as the largest lake in the world, has such situation due to restrictions in its water connections as well as limited trade volume among its neighboring countries. So, in this research, a comprehensive statistical analysis has been conducted over a 17-year period data of Iranian port calls, to present more accurate and location-based formulae for general cargo carriers, bulk carriers and tankers at the region. Comparing the results of new formula with those suggested by well-known international guidelines clearly shows the importance of this study. In other words, there is a large difference between the length and the draft of typical ships in the Caspian Sea and those represented by generally accepted standards and handbooks.