An Investigation on the Effect of Sea Currents on Weather Routing Optimisation

Abstract

In the present study, a preliminary investigation for the effect of sea currents on the identification of the optimal route utilising a developed weather routing tool is presented. The contribution of sea currents can be either positive when a moving vessel goes towards their flow and consequently time and fuel are potentially saved, or negative when moving against their flow affecting ship’s speed and consumption notably. The developed weather routing tool is based on a physics-based model for the calculation of main engine’s fuel oil consumption considering the forecasted weather along the route as well as ship characteristics. Several strategies for the treatment of the currents are examined reflecting different fuel oil and time savings.