System Challenges

Geographic Challenges

  • Demanding weather and sea states
  • Long distances
  • Tidal constraints
  • Coastal and open-ocean routes
  • International service

Market Challenges

  • Highly seasonal demand
  • Many ports
  • Small communities

Financial Challenges

  • Aging ships
  • High crewing and fuel costs
  • Increased Coast Guard and security requirements
  • Deferred maintenance
  • Price sensitivity among customers
  • Increasing gap between revenues and expenditures