Wave Periods?

[fellinger]

I'm trying to really understand wind period. I think I have it about understood but, want to be sure what I have read is correct....

Period is how long something takes to happen. In this case how long it takes for a wave to pass, correct? So, if a wave has a shorter period it would be over sooner. When looking at periods would you think a wave with a small or longer period would be a better condition? I would thnk longer would be more like swells and easier to transit.

Thoughts?

[Andys Delight]

I'm trying to really understand wind period. I think I have it about understood but, want to be sure what I have read is correct....

Period is how long something takes to happen. In this case how long it takes for a wave to pass, correct? So, if a wave has a shorter period it would be over sooner. When looking at periods would you think a wave with a small or longer period would be a better condition? I would thnk longer would be more like swells and easier to transit.

Thoughts?

I think wave period is the time from tip to tip of the wave.  Long period waves are much more maneuverable as you slowly ascend and descend them.  It's the short period swells that start compressing your spine from the pounding.

[IKAT]

Fred YES longer period the better--shorter--goes to chop

Remember--this is wave not wife 

[Luna Sea 5]

if you have a 5' swell, at 15 seconds, that isn't bad at all.  That means every 15 seconds, you get the swell.  A 2' swell at 3 seconds, means before your boat is off the first swell, the second one is already on top of you, hence more of a chop. 

[IrishAyes]

Yes, wave period is the time between waves. As Nick said, shorter the wave period, worse chop.

[Duffman]

Regardless of height, I always look at wave period.   

6 second rule.  If its 6 or under, your in for hell.  7 and up ya start looking at wave height, wind speed and direction.  From that point, make your decision when/where/if to go.

Of course, every boat (and captain)  can handle different situations differently, so plan accordingly.