Optimizing tugboat fleet efficiency in port operations using discrete-event simulation modeling

Background: In Indonesia, marine logistics is considered a priority sector because 40% of international trade passes through the country, with 90% of it utilizing sea transportation. Therefore, this research aims to determine the optimal number of tugboat fleets operating at Tanjung Priok Port by evaluating the average overall time and waiting time for pilotage activities and towage services. Methods: This study used secondary data sourced from the 2019 Daily Report on Ship Movements by PT. P (Regional 2). A discrete-event simulation method was applied using Arena Simulation software, incorporating a scenario where one chartered tugboat unit was reduced. Findings: The results showed that PT. P already provides effective pilotage and towage services. Furthermore, reducing one 1240DK tugboat unit had no significant impact on the company’s initial operational performance. Conclusion: PT. P’s current tugboat fleet is sufficient to maintain service efficiency, even with the reduction of one unit. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study offers insight into optimizing tugboat operations through simulation modeling, presenting an approach that has not been extensively explored in Indonesian port logistics.