An Integrated Wave Monitoring Network for the Hellenic Seas

In this paper, an integrated wave monitoring network for the Hellenic Seas is presented and its components are described. The network is comprised from wave buoys and nautical X-band radars covering most of the important areas of the Hellenic seas as regards complicated wave propagation patterns. The buoy wave monitoring network is part of the POSEIDON system for the monitoring, information and forecasting of the state of the Hellenic Seas. The X-band wave radar network is under development within the context of the OKEANOS project in co-operation with the Hellenic Navy Hydrographic Service. The measuring techniques and principles of both types of devices (buoys and X-band radars) are also described. The wave measurements from the network are mainly used for improving the operational wave forecasts provided by the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), for individual planning purposes and in the design and construction of coastal and offshore structures. Two experimental coastal sites have been selected for comparing the radar wave data with data from directional wave buoys and the WAM wave model.