Ship Speed Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines a ship's speed in knots based on the distance traveled and time taken.
Purpose: It helps mariners, navigators, and shipping professionals calculate vessel speed for navigation, fuel estimation, and voyage planning.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The distance in nautical miles is divided by the time in hours to get speed in knots (nautical miles per hour).
Details: Accurate speed calculation is crucial for navigation safety, fuel efficiency, arrival time estimation, and compliance with shipping schedules.
Tips: Enter the distance in nautical miles and time in hours. Both values must be > 0. The result will be in knots.
Q1: What exactly is a knot?
A: One knot equals one nautical mile per hour (1.852 km/h or 1.151 mph).
Q2: Why use nautical miles instead of statute miles?
A: Nautical miles are based on Earth's circumference and are standard in marine navigation.
Q3: Can I use this for air speed too?
A: Yes, aircraft speeds are also commonly measured in knots.
Q4: What if I have time in minutes?
A: Convert minutes to hours by dividing by 60 (e.g., 30 minutes = 0.5 hours).
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical speed. Actual speed may vary due to currents, winds, and other factors.