Analysis of the Hydrodynamic Performance of Shallow-Draft Vessels Designed for Nigerian Inland Waterway Operations

The design of shallow-draft vessels optimised for the hydraulic and navigational conditions of Nigerian inland waterways represents a significant applied research gap with implications for passenger safety and cargo transport efficiency. This study analyses the hydrodynamic performance of shallow-draft vessel hull forms appropriate for operations on the River Niger and River Benue systems, where navigable depths during dry season may fall to below one metre in sections. Employing a computational fluid dynamics methodology combined with physical model testing at a towing tank facility, the study investigates resistance, propulsive efficiency, and stability characteristics of three candidate hull forms: monohull, catamaran, and swath configurations, at design draughts of between 0.4 and 0.8 metres. Model testing was conducted using scaled models at a 1:15 ratio. Results indicate that the catamaran configuration offers superior resistance characteristics at shallow-water Froude numbers typical of Nigerian inland waterway speeds, with a fifteen percent reduction in calm-water resistance compared to the equivalent monohull. Stability margins for the catamaran at maximum design passenger load were found to be adequate but require careful management of passenger distribution. The study provides the first systematic hydrodynamic dataset for this hull configuration in Nigerian inland waterway conditions, filling a recognised research gap. Recommendations include adoption of the catamaran hull form in a pilot vessel procurement programme by the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority. Keywords: shallow-draft vessels, hydrodynamic performance, computational fluid dynamics, inland waterways, hull design