A Simple Route

This is an example of  a relatively uncomplicated trans-oceanic route from Gibraltar to Miami at 13 knots with ETD October 19. The recommended routing  suggests a deviation from the Least Distance Track (LDT) for a potential saving of  a quarter of a day.

Looking at the synopsis of both routes the choice is essentially between the great circle route and an approximation of the rhumb-line track.  The Least Time Track  is about 100 miles longer than the LDT  but it has performance advantages in both current and sea state which outweigh the penalty of increased distance.  As illustrated the LDT is to the North and comes under the partial influence of the Gulf Stream ( easterly currents shown in red).  The more southerly track is slightly influenced by Westerly currents  ( westerly currents shown in blue).

In addition to the surface current advantage, greater significant wave heights are predicted  on the more Northerly route several days into the passage.

This is a simple passage to route because it is unlikely that the Master will find any disagreement with the routing suggestion.

Once the vessel has settled on the Rhumb Line routing updates should be given at regular intervals to ensure that the full benefit of the routing strategy can be realized. With a quarter day of vessel hire and cost saved you could be well on your way to saving $5,000.