REDUCING SHIP FUEL CONSUMPTION THROUGH INTEGRATED ROUTE AND SPEED OPTIMIZATION: A MATHEMATICAL MODELING APPROACH

MEDHAT H. AZZAM, AHMED S. SHEHATA, SHERINE N. SALEH

Abstract


The global maritime sector is currently navigating a critical period, marked by the dual pressures of stringent international environmental regulations, and escalating marine fuel costs. These factors necessitate a fundamental shift in operational strategies to prioritize both decarbonization and economic efficiency. In addressing this challenge, this research introduces a novel dual-optimization model that integrates two crucial elements of voyage planning: optimal speed determination and dynamic route planning. While the benefits of individual optimization strategies are well-documented, this study focuses on quantifying the significant, synergistic fuel-saving potential realized when both parameters are optimized within a single, cohesive framework. A robust mathematical model was developed and subsequently implemented in MATLAB, allowing for the systematic calculation of fuel consumption across every segment of a voyage and the simultaneous optimization of both speed and routing variables. The model’s efficacy was rigorously validated through a case study involving a representative container vessel conducting a voyage between two regional ports, utilizing actual, real- world operational data. The results demonstrate that the integrated approach achieved substantial fuel savings, registering an approximate 14% reduction in consumption when compared against conventional, fixed-speed operational methods. This work contributes a practical, accessible, and easily reproducible mathematical framework designed for direct application by marine engineers and voyage planners. By advancing integrated voyage optimization, this research offers a practical method for achieving greater sustainability and tangible cost efficiencies in daily maritime operations. 

Keywords


ship routing, fuel optimization, speed reduction, MATLAB, marine efficiency

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DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21622/MARLOG.2026.15.1.60

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Copyright (c) 2026 MEDHAT H. AZZAM, AHMED S. SHEHATA, SHERINE N. SALEH

The International Maritime Transport and Logistics Journal (MARLOG)

E-ISSN: 2974-3141
P-ISSN: 2974-3133

Published by:

Academy Publishing Center (APC)

Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT)

Alexandria, Egypt