Oceanographic data goes mobile with new online viewer

Applied oceanography specialist Tidetech has released a new version of its online oceanographic data viewer.

The online viewer gives access to a unique resource of information not available anywhere else. Providing accurate data for tides, ocean currents, sea surface temperatures (SST), waves and wind, this is the first resource of its kind offering all of these data elements in one place – online.

The benefit of the online viewer is that all recreational boaters can access this resource in a simple to interpret format on a variety of devices such as laptop, iPad/tablet and mobile device. The data can also be printed for easy reference.

Tidal and ocean current data is available up to three days in advance (wind up to five days in advance) meaning an internet connection is not continually required during use.

Tidetech managing director Penny Haire said it was a major resource for all recreational boaters.

“There are many sailors and boaters out there that don’t necessarily have the time, resources or platform to use professional navigation software [where this kind of data has been primarily used up until now],” Ms Haire said.

“The idea behind the online viewer is to give everyday boaters access to high-grade scientific data that can enhance their time on the water. It allows recreational boaters to be more efficient, more competitive and more decisive by using natural elements of the ocean.

“The online viewer can be used by racing or cruising yacht sailors, dinghy and small boat sailors, weekend boaters, coastal kayakers and really just about anyone going afloat.”

The viewer displays data in specified grids in time-steps of 15-30 minutes (depending on location). Resolution of data is from 100m to several kilometres depending on data-type and region.

Active areas covered by the online viewer include the southeast coast of Australia, Sydney Harbour, Bass Strait, Hobart approaches, English Channel, the Solent and San Francisco Bay.

Tidetech will be setting up content for specific events including the 2011 Rolex Sydney to Hobart and the forthcoming Etchell Worlds in Sydney Harbour.