<p>A simple method for estimating fuel consumption for vessels of various sizes and operating speeds is developed and demonstrated. Fuel consumption can be computed on a daily basis, on the basis of each kilometer traveled, and on the basis of each unit of cargo carried over one kilometer. Various ways of expressing fuel consumption facilitate comparison with overland carriage by truck and railroad, which may be viable alternatives to coastal shipping. Finally, pollutant emissions are estimated based on the amount of different emissions produced by burning one kilogram of residual fuel oil. This enables the evaluation of environmental impact and comparison with truck and railroad transport. Reliable estimates of fuel consumption and pollutant emissions are needed to inform public policy, improve environmental regulation, fleet/infrastructure planning, etc.</p>