This study presents a framework for optimising ocean routes that combines the complementary strengths of forecast and hindcast data. Forecast products provide valuable guidance but are reliable for only about ten days—much shorter than the duration of an ocean crossing. To overcome this limitation, we introduce a two-step framework that uses forecast data to explore viable short-term trajectories, which are then extended to the destination using 20 years of hindcast reanalysis, enabling identification of optimum routes with greater robustness. The framework relies on a physics-based model that links environmental forcing to vessel motion through a balance of rowing effort and air and water drag, enabling realistic trajectory simulations under varying conditions. Live route optimisation is achieved by combining vessel tracking and near-real-time forecast data, ensuring routes remain optimal as conditions evolve during the crossing. This approach has been successfully applied in two independent ocean crossings and offers potential for broader application in routing and decision support for other weather-dependent vessels.

Biography:
Rick de Kreij is a PhD student at UWA’s Oceans Institute, where he focuses on inferring fine-scale near-surface ocean currents from satellite measurements. The developed techniques are anticipated to aid offshore oil and gas operations, pollution responses, and be of use in a variety of other applications. He has also conducted a study on route optimisation for ocean rowing crossings, implementing a two-step framework that integrates short-term forecasts with long-term hindcast data to optimise routes and support real-time decisions at sea.