The floating future of ports: a systematic review of readiness, challenges, and pathways toward sustainable floating ports

Abstract This study investigates the emerging concept of floating ports, examining their applications, technological readiness, and future potential as transformative maritime infrastructure. Despite decades of isolated innovations in floating structures such as floating breakwaters, terminals, piers, berths, tourism platforms, shipyards, very large floating structures (VLFS) and renewable energy platforms, the literature remains fragmented with limited cohesive research addressing floating ports as integrated systems. By employing a systematic literature search combining bigram-based keyword analysis across Scopus and Web of Science, the study identified 142 relevant articles focused on floating ports and harbors. A Balanced Readiness Level Assessment (BRLa) across eight floating port applications revealed moderate to high technological maturity for most components however persistent gaps in market readiness, regulatory frameworks, organizational integration, and societal acceptance. While floating structures have been successfully deployed in niche, single-user contexts, no fully established multi-user floating port currently exists at a scale comparable to that of a conventional seaport. The findings highlight the necessity of integrated governance models, regulatory alignment, stakeholder engagement, and robust financial frameworks to support the transition of floating ports from isolated experimental structures to fully operational and sustainable maritime hubs. Such development is critical to addressing land scarcity, enhancing resilience, and managing evolving logistical challenges within global port systems.