Measurement of Sea Waves

This chapter focuses on the analysis and measurement of sea waves. After a brief review about the generation and propagation of ocean waves, the most common wave spectra are briefy described. Subsequently, the spectral analysis of sea waves is discussed focusing on the most promising techniques that allow obtaining the sea state parameters starting from the wave elevation time history. Finally, two techniques useful to measure the sea wave parameters are outlined. The former is based on the reverse analysis of the motions a ship advancing at a constant speed in a seaway, and the latter focuses on the employment of coastal high-frequency radars.