The problems with predicting the performance of very high speed craft

The number of high speed marine vehicles in operation around the world has increased dramatically over the last couple of decades. In addition, the maximum size of these vessels has increased, as has the number of passengers carried on each vessel. High speed marine vehicles have the potential to be less safe than conventional shipping. shipping-. They combine: light weight; high speed; large passenger numbers;-and quickly developing technology which both increase-the likelihood of conventional risks, and introduce completely new risks related specifically to such craft. This paper discusses some of the risks associated with high speed marine vehicles, and briefly outlines mitigation issues. It is noted that regulators, operators and designers have invested considerable effort in developing new approaches to the design and operation of such craft to ensure that they meet adequate safety standards. Although it is perhaps too early to be complacent, initial indications are that this effort is successful in keeping the safety of high speed marine vehicles to an acceptable level.