Optimizing Floating Architecture Locations Based on Transport Accessibility for Sustainable Short-Sea Systems

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Abstract
Rapid urban growth and climate pressure on coastal zones are increasing interest in Floating Architecture (FA) as an extension of urban infrastructure into marine environments. The feasibility of such developments depends strongly on the reliability and efficiency of transport systems connecting offshore structures with coastal transport networks. Environmental conditions, particularly wave-induced ship motions, can affect the performance and safety of shuttle vessels serving these installations.This study investigates whether FA locations can be optimized to maintain reliable offshore transport accessibility while satisfying vessel safety constraints. The proposed Floating Architecture Location Optimizer (FALO) integrates port location, sailing distance, sea-state statistics, and deterministic weather routing constrained by the Second Generation Intact Stability Criteria (SGISC).Application to three European coastal regions shows that vessel dynamic stability influences directional transport accessibility. The results indicate that spatial planning of floating developments can improve transport reliability and support sustainable short-sea transport systems.

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