Wind influence on ship manoeuvrability – a turning circle analysis

Abstract

Ship manoeuvrability is a wide term which consist of number of various parameters. Knowing the influence of these parameters on ship manoeuvrability is a first condition to ensure and maintain safe navigation. However, many of these parameters are external forces and, in some cases, cannot be calculated and prediction may be complicated. Analysing the influence of external forces can give as an insight into ship manoeuvrability when such external force occurs. The main purpose of this paper is to analyse the influence of wind on ship manoeuvrability. The best way to make such analysis is during turning circle because in this case wind acts in all 360°. Analysis is made using empirical equations and in situ with the real vessel. The results provide the better understanding of vessel trajectory and show that in some cases vessel may respond in unexpected manner.