Simulation of marine traffic in Istanbul Strait

Abstract The Turkish Straits, comprising the Strait of Canakkale, the Strait of Istanbul and the Sea of Marmara, are unique in many respects. The very narrow and winding shape of the strait, gives it river like characteristics, and it is an established fact that for mariners the Turkish Straits are one of the most hazardous, crowded, and potentially dangerous, waterways in the world. All the dangers and obstacles characteristic of narrow waterways are present and acute in this critical sea lane. In this research, the simulation of the Istanbul Strait was done under unique traffic conditions and results of this simulation, and the effects of probable increase in marine traffic due to new oil pipelines, are discussed.