Two typical types of channels are identified on the PIANC rules (one and two-way channel) and a detailed set of rules for conceptual design purposes is presented. Nevertheless, no explicit definition about when to use which type of channel is provided. For assessing the performance of an access channel, a new simulation model is programmed. This model permits the assessment of different type and layouts of an approach channel, and incorporates several functionalities that allow the enhancement of the yearly number of ships without exceeding an acceptable congestion criterion. As a previous stage for the programming of the simulation model, a verbal model is defined. It describes the main processes related to vessels using an access channel (entrance to the channel, different speed stages, etc.). To enter into the channel, a vessel has to accomplish with different restrictions (channel open, berth available, traffic and weather conditions suitable). The development of the simulation model was executed in two different stages. In a first stage, a basic model was programmed. It includes all typical options available on alternative simulation models like Harboursim: one or two-way channel, tidal and current window, single entrance to the access channel. The model was programmed in Matlab® as a fast-time model, and it is executed in four sequential stages: set-up, data generation, model running and output. Because of the absence of real data information, the simulation model is not validated. Nevertheless, several testing of its main functions and checking of the model results with other accepted sources of information are performed. The second development stage corresponds to the implementation of several functionalities that enhance the performance of the access channel. These measures are classified as traffic measures and enlargement of the nautical infrastructure. The traffic measures include a ‘mixed’ operability of the channel, multiple entrances allowance and speed reduction allowance. The layout modification measures include a passing section and the implementation of an intermediate anchorage. Some results of the simulation model were analyzed. In a first part, a definition of the different parameters that have an effect on the traffic delay is provided (type of channel, expected number of ships, length, capacity and availability of the channel). Via a sensitivity analysis, four relationships are proposed for the average and maximum waiting time. In a second part, the effectiveness of the different available functions is analyzed. While a mixed operation and a multiple entrances scheme are better for fleets with a large number of small vessels, a modification of the layout is better for larger ships. The simulation model is used for the assessment of the traffic conditions of the approach channel of the Taman Seaport. For the current design, the results indicate that during an initial stage of operation, all terminals have acceptable delays. Nevertheless, during a final stage of operation, two terminals (Container 1 and Coal 1) present delays larger than the accepted. The main cause of delay for Container 1 is berth availability, while for the Coal 1 the main cause is divided between berth availability and congestion. Because of the large number of small vessels present in the Taman’s fleet, traffic rules are applied (mixed operation and multiple entrances). Average traffic delay is reduced from 18 min to 2 min. If the layout is modified, the average traffic delay can be reduced down to 1 min (passing section). The modification of the layout is recommended only if the benefit per reduced hour of congestion is larger than 13,300 /hr.