The use of simulation methods to determine the maximum dimensions of the ship capable to maneuvring on the selected sea area

The paper presents one of the methods to determine the maximum vessel size allowed for the maneuver on tested sea area or harbour. This method is based on the Navi - Trainer PRO 5000 simulator by Transas Marine available to the authors at the Institute of Navigation and Hydrography of Naval Academy of Gdynia. In the paper was described the possible use of additional simulator software components to generate the necessary virtual sea area. The next stage of research work was making several tests based on the created virtual harbour. These simulations tests are carried out under variable weather conditions for various vessel sizes and maneuvering characteristics. The result of simulation test are very important for determine the parameters of the maximum vessel size and hydro-meteorological conditions allowing safe navigation.