Sea Distances Voyage Calculator

Great Circle Distance Calculation:

\[ d = R \times \arccos(\sin(\phi_1) \times \sin(\phi_2) + \cos(\phi_1) \times \cos(\phi_2) \times \cos(\Delta\lambda)) \]

Departure Latitude:

Departure Longitude:

Arrival Latitude:

Arrival Longitude:

Distance (Nautical Miles):

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1. What Is Great Circle Distance?

The Great Circle Distance is the shortest distance between two points on the surface of a sphere. For sea voyages, this represents the most efficient route between two ports, following the curvature of the Earth.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Great Circle Distance formula:

\[ d = R \times \arccos(\sin(\phi_1) \times \sin(\phi_2) + \cos(\phi_1) \times \cos(\phi_2) \times \cos(\Delta\lambda)) \]

Where:

\( d \) — Distance in nautical miles
\( R \) — Earth's radius (3440.065 nautical miles)
\( \phi_1, \phi_2 \) — Latitude of points 1 and 2 in radians
\( \Delta\lambda \) — Difference in longitude between points in radians

Explanation: This formula calculates the central angle between two points on a sphere and multiplies by the Earth's radius to get the actual distance.

3. Importance Of Sea Distance Calculation

Details: Accurate sea distance calculation is crucial for voyage planning, fuel estimation, arrival time predictions, and optimizing shipping routes for commercial vessels.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter coordinates in decimal degrees format. Latitude ranges from -90° to 90°, longitude from -180° to 180°. Positive values for North/East, negative for South/West.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What Is A Nautical Mile?
A: A nautical mile is approximately 1.852 kilometers or 1.15078 statute miles, based on one minute of latitude.

Q2: Why Use Great Circle Instead Of Rhumb Line?
A: Great Circle provides the shortest distance, while Rhumb Line maintains constant bearing. Great Circle saves time and fuel for long voyages.

Q3: How Accurate Is This Calculation?
A: The calculation provides theoretical shortest distance. Actual voyage distance may vary due to navigation constraints, weather, and sea conditions.

Q4: Can I Use This For Air Travel?
A: Yes, the same principle applies to air navigation, though aircraft may follow modified great circle routes due to air traffic control.

Q5: What About Time Zone Calculations?
A: This calculator only provides distance. Time calculations require additional factors like vessel speed and time zone differences.