Wave Height Prediction and Estimation

L

Levity

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C Dory Year
2003
C Dory Model
22 Cruiser
Hull Identification Number
CD022121C303
Vessel Name
Levity
A breezy experience last week caused me to seek a method using wind velocity and fetch to predict wave heights. Is there such a formula? A reasonably accurate prediction could help with a go/no go decision.
What is the most accurate method of estimating wave height from the helm?
Seems that the movement of the boat makes fixing wave heights difficult.
Mike 'Levity'
 
Mike-

There probably is a predicition formula, but the current would make a huge difference considering how it lays down the waves when it's going with them and stands them up when it opposes them.

I'll bet most folks over-estimate the heights of waves, often by a facor of 2X or more.

Joe.
 
Mike-

I looked at the models on wave height prediction- A very complicated subject without easy answers or perfect models!

Check it out:

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=wa ... gle+Search

However, I'll bet you I could design a weighted float with a measuring stick coming up out of it that could be used to gauge the height of passing waves.

Joe.
 
You can estimate by determing your height above the waterline.
I am 6'4" and say for example 8" above waterline in the boat at the dock. When in a trough and if you cant see over the crest then waves are over 7'. if you can see over them then less than 7.
m2cw
 
Yes, there is a formula; some of my engineer friends use it to calculate significant wave heights on waterfront projects. It also incorporates duration, for the longer the wind blows at a a certain speed and across a given distance, the bigger the wave. Unfortunately, that's the extent of my knowledge.
Al
 
For swell and wind predictions I use wetsands.com
Their site gives reasonably accurate predictions of swell height and has a 7 day prediction window. Of course, it's more accurate a few days out than it is 7 days out. However, I've found it to be very good. In particular, if you see that there are 3 really low swell days in a row predicted for a couple of days from now. You can almost bank on the middle of those 3 days to be great. Check out the URL and select the region in which you are interested.
 
Nice site, Roger... wave height, swell, period, and wind. Have you found it to be reasonably accurate for planning purposes a couple days out? I've added that to my favorites! :thup

I've used NOAA, but this looks better to show trend. Thanks!

Best wishes,
Jim B.
 
JamesTXSD":jnyzifh9 said:
Nice site, Roger... wave height, swell, period, and wind. Have you found it to be reasonably accurate for planning purposes a couple days out? I've added that to my favorites! :thup

I've used NOAA, but this looks better to show trend. Thanks!

Best wishes,
Jim B.
Click to expand...

Jim,

Yes. I primarily use it to pick the days when I will leave the Strait of Juan de Fuca to fish in the ocean. It's very good (at least for the Neah Bay area). When I go out there to fish for a week, I have visitors bring me a fresh print out every day or two for planning purposes.
 
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