High-speed craft dynamics in waves: challenges and opportunities related to the current safety philosophy

This paper considers the assessment of vertical accelerations of high speed planing craft in waves as the principal element for the risk management approach, i.e. formulation and application of operational limitations and operational guidance. Semi-empirical methods used by classification societies for vertical acceleration assessment are scrutinized. Insights from model experiments performed at the University of Naples “Federico II” (UNINA) and simulations performed at the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) are presented. Deficiencies of the prevailing semi-empirical methods, and challenges and opportunities with a combined experimental-numerical approach, are discussed in perspective of the IMO high-speed craft safety philosophy.