wave resistance

Wave resistance is the force that opposes a boat’s movement caused by the waves it creates as it moves through water. When a vessel travels, it displaces water, generating waves, especially at the bow and stern. These waves carry energy away from the boat, and the boat must use engine power to overcome this energy loss. The more waves a boat creates, or the larger they are, the greater the wave resistance. This resistance affects fuel efficiency and speed, making it a key factor in designing boats to move smoothly and efficiently through water.