Kinematics of breaking rogue waves

The offshore and shipping industry require accurate prediction of the shape of the largest waves and associated velocities to design and operate marine structures. Of particular interest are the so-called rogue waves, these waves are at least twice the height of the surrounding waves and often prone to breaking. The kinematic field associated with breaking rogue waves is responsible for the largest hydrodynamic loads on marine structures that, over the decades, have been responsible for many accidents recorded at sea. This work demonstrates that the simple linear potential wave theory, used for decades by engineers, is not a reliable tool to predict wave induced velocities and consequently hydrodynamic forces during storm conditions when rogue waves are more likely to occur. Ultimately, the dissertation provides an enhanced description of the velocity field associated with breaking and non-breaking rogue waves to improve the current design practice.