Binnacle AI Arcade › Port Operations & Harbor Management Simulator

Port Operations & Harbor Management Simulator

Run a working port: schedule vessels, allocate berths, manage a cargo economy, and direct vessel traffic in real time. Two complementary games cover both the strategic and tactical sides of port operations.

Port operations is a discipline that spans vessel traffic management, berth allocation, cargo scheduling, tug dispatch, and coordination with pilots, stevedores, and customs. The Binnacle AI Arcade offers two complementary games: Port Tycoon, which covers the economic and logistical side of running a harbor, and Harbor Control, which simulates real-time vessel traffic management (VTS).

Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)

VTS is the system by which port authorities monitor and direct vessel movements within a defined zone. Major ports (Rotterdam, Singapore, Los Angeles, New York) have sophisticated VTS centers with AIS tracking, radar coverage, and VHF communications. VTS operators:

Berth allocation optimization

Matching vessels to berths efficiently requires balancing draft, cargo type, turnaround time, and gangway availability. A container ship waiting at anchor costs its operator $50,000–$100,000 per day in demurrage. Port Tycoon's upgrade economy rewards players who optimize throughput through thoughtful berth planning and cargo-type matching.

Play the games

Strategy

Port Tycoon

Build and run a harbor: schedule vessels, upgrade facilities, and grow cargo throughput through multiple eras.

Play free ▸ VTS

Harbor Control

Direct vessel traffic in real time. Route vessels to berths without collisions in a busy port.

Play free ▸ Fuel Ops

Bunkering

Manage a ship's fuel transfer operation: calculate quantities, avoid overflow, maintain trim.

Play free ▸

More related games:

harbor pilot ship docking simulator container ship stowage planning game ship's crane & lifting operations game anchor watch simulation game canal lock operations simulator maritime crew watch scheduling

32 free maritime games — no account needed

Binnacle AI Arcade has games for every aspect of seamanship, from cargo stowage to COLREGS to heavy weather. Free to play, global leaderboards, daily challenges.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a VTS?
A Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) is a system established by port authorities or coast guards to supervise vessel traffic. VTS can range from simple information services to full navigational assistance and traffic organization.
What is demurrage?
Demurrage is the charge payable by a charterer to a shipowner when loading or discharging takes longer than the agreed 'laytime.' In port operations, every day a berth is occupied past the scheduled departure costs the operator money.
What is a free pratique?
Free pratique is clearance granted by port health authorities allowing a vessel to land and transact business after confirming no infectious disease conditions exist on board. It's required before passengers and crew can go ashore in most countries.
What is a Notice of Readiness (NOR)?
A Notice of Readiness is a formal document tendered by the master to the charterer or their agent when the vessel has arrived at the agreed destination and is ready to load or discharge cargo. It starts the laytime clock.