Short sea shipping refers to the transport of cargo and passengers between adjacent or nearby ports or coastal regions, typically within a single country or region. It is a mode of transportation that utilizes ships or vessels to move goods and people across relatively short distances, usually along coastlines, rivers, or canals.
In this context, short sea shipping serves as an alternative to land-based transportation methods such as road or rail. It offers numerous advantages, including reduced congestion on highways, lower carbon emissions, and the potential to alleviate pressure on infrastructure. Additionally, it provides a cost-effective and efficient means of transporting goods, especially bulky or heavy cargo, that is not time-sensitive.
Short sea shipping supports domestic and regional trade, offering a vital connection between ports and facilitating economic growth within the respective areas. It plays a significant role in integrating different modes of transportation, allowing for seamless intermodal connections between ports, inland terminals, and other transportation networks.
The term 'short sea shipping' is often used interchangeably with 'coastal shipping' or 'maritime cabotage,' but it can also include the transport of goods between neighboring countries. Government policies and initiatives, such as incentives and subsidies, are often implemented to promote and develop the short sea shipping market, recognizing its potential to reduce road traffic, mitigate environmental impacts, and enhance logistical efficiency.
