ABSTRACT
Thirteen countries have contributed to Arctic shipping research concerning cost and emissions assessments of Arctic routes. Empirical statistical research aims at verifying theoretical relationships by analysing large samples of data from real business processes. The preference for general cost models and optimisation techniques, to a lesser extent, could be attributed to the fact that researchers focus on route-specific economic characteristics and their overall competitiveness from a shipowner/charterer’s perspective. A wide variety of navigational, operational and cost factors were identified. Optimal operating speeds are adjusted depending on the prevailing market conditions and fuel prices amongst others. Low freight rates and/or high fuel prices impose speed reductions which favour slow steaming and vice versa. Low load factors, high icebreaking fees, potential delays and uncertainty when it comes to liner shipping favour the classical routes, even under high fuel prices.
