Watertransport

Water transport is the movement of people and goods by vessels on water. It includes maritime shipping on oceans and seas, and inland waterway transport on rivers and canals. Water transport is central to global trade because of high cargo capacity and efficiency over long distances.

Maritime shipping relies on container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers to move large quantities of goods. Inland waterways use barges on rivers and canals to carry bulk materials or containers. Passenger water transport includes ferries and regional services on lakes, rivers, and coastal routes.

Key infrastructure includes ports, docks, locks, and canals, as well as dredging and navigational aids. Intermodal terminals connect ships with road and rail networks. Major routes and hubs include canals such as Suez and Panama, and busy ports like Shanghai, Singapore, Rotterdam, and Los Angeles.

Regulation is overseen by the International Maritime Organization, with conventions such as SOLAS and MARPOL governing safety and environmental protection. Ballast water management, fuel efficiency, and emissions controls are ongoing concerns. The sector faces challenges from congestion, weather, piracy, and the transition to lower-emission fuels.

Historically, water transport enabled long-distance trade and the growth of civilizations. The advent of steam and containerization in the 20th century greatly increased efficiency. Today, water transport remains essential for bulk commodities and global supply chains, often serving as the most economical mode for heavy cargo.