This manual provides design guidance for improving deep-draft navigation projects. The design goal applicable to project development is to provide a safe, efficient, environmentally sound, and cost-effective waterway for ships and other vessels. An economic objective is to provide for these goals while minimizing and balancing the initial construction costs and future maintenance costs. The general guidance presented in this manual is based on average navigation conditions and situations. The design engineer will adapt these guidelines to the local, site-specific conditions of the project. Usually, the final project design will be developed by application of a ship navigation study, incorporating real-time ship simulation tests with local professional pilots.