The system of port waterways has been defined herein as a composition of three subsystems: approach area
(port basin), quay and its equipment, navigational (determination of ship position and speed). Besides, the
author defines the state vector of conditions for safe operation of berthing ships. Described are interrelations
between parameters of port waterway system and the state vector of safe operation of berthing ships.
Differences have been specified between sea waterway systems (fairways, harbour entrances, turning basins,
anchorages) and systems of port waterways (port basin, lock).