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Wave speed

Discussion in 'General Yachting Discussion' started by DDD, Aug 19, 2011.

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  1. DDD, Aug 19, 2011
    #1
    DDD

    DDD New Member

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    I am not sure how to phrase this question. What is the [B]average[/B] speed of a wave ? If a ship is going 7 knots will most waves be passing her ?
  2. Capt Bill11, Aug 19, 2011
    #2
    Capt Bill11

    Capt Bill11 Senior Member

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  3. NYCAP123, Aug 20, 2011
    #3
    NYCAP123

    NYCAP123 Senior Member

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    Wave speed is generally the number of seconds between waves. It's a good measure of sea condition. Pull up Dial-A-Buoy, pick a buoy and go to detailed wave summary.
  4. DDD, Aug 20, 2011
    #4
    DDD

    DDD New Member

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    Thanks. I read an interesting article about the inability of major trawlers to outrun waves and are not designed to allow waves to pass without the risk of broaching.
  5. NYCAP123, Aug 20, 2011
    #5
    NYCAP123

    NYCAP123 Senior Member

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    There's nothing quite like the feel of waves passing under your quarter, especially coming through an inlet. :eek: I always like to have enouh power to stay on top of one and ride it all the way in. When you fall back into the traugh all sorts of bad things can happen. Sailboaters and trawlers I guess get used to it and good at dealing with it (or don't last).