Abstract
From a scientific viewpoint, as well as from the perspective of navigation practice, it is clear that the Adriatic Sea feeder service is relatively underdeveloped. Hence, the objective of this study is to suggest a model for selecting the hub port and to optimize the network of seaports engaged in the feeder service. Accordingly, an appropriate hub port has been identified through the methods of multi-criteria decision making and expert assessment, and the optimum shipping route has been calculated by applying the travelling salesman algorithm (TSA). In order to analyze whether there is a possibility of obtaining better optimization results, an integration of a sub-hub port system is suggested. Optimization has been achieved by applying a minimum spanning tree algorithm (MST) and a combination of these algorithms. The proposed methodology for selecting the hub port, sub-hub port and optimizing the feeder network can be implemented globally. The practical application of the achieved model would result in cost minimization, owing to shorter shipping routes or a combination of different transportation means (feeders).
Highlights
IntroductionInland shipping has been increasing in Europe, heavily affecting the development of feeder service and hub seaports [5,6]
In accordance with all previously stated research, the main objective of this study is to find a model for selecting the hub port that can handle the feeder service in the Adriatic Sea, and to optimize the network of service seaports
For exampl longest distance Ancona—Gioia Tauro from Figure 4 is eliminated, the solu beResults presented as a minimum spanning tree algorithm (MST) problem
Summary
Inland shipping has been increasing in Europe, heavily affecting the development of feeder service and hub seaports [5,6]. There is a need for a multi-criteria analysis that takes into consideration more variables, such as hierarchical structures, and measures them with suitable algorithms [12,13]. This is why, when selecting a hub port, this research uses the expertise and knowledge of 20 experts from the maritime traffic field of study. It must be underlined that expert elicitation is considered to be a valid tool for the identification of crucial components of research [14,15]
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