ABSTRACT
The increase of the ship size has led to an increased demand for generation of side forces to control the vessel. This trend of increasing ships can be seen in the merchant sector (container vessels), and in the leisure market (cruise vessels). For both operations, the maneuverability in ports, and the time required to maneuver are an important aspect. The dimensions of the super structures above the waterline, are subjected to the wind forces which can lead to large side forces acting on the vessel. The side way movement of the vessel towards the quay, often denoted as crabbing mode, require sufficient side force to accelerate the vessel into a sideway direction and to counteract the wind forces acting on the vessel. Increase of the vessel sizes evidently lead to increased side thrust requirements.
