Weather Routing and Voyage Planning

This course provides a practical understanding of weather routeing and voyage planning for safe, efficient, and economical ship operations. It covers the interpretation of weather forecasts, synoptic and prognostic charts, ocean and meteorological data, vessel performance characteristics, and the selection of optimum routes considering wind, waves, swell, currents, tropical cyclones, heavy weather, and ice conditions. The course also examines the use of weather routeing services, hindcast data, vessel performance curves, and voyage-planning principles to minimise passage time, fuel consumption, cargo risks, and exposure to adverse weather. Emphasis is placed on integrating meteorological information with the Master's appraisal, planning, execution, monitoring, and adjustment of the voyage in accordance with safe navigation practices.