# An Ocean Scientist explains... Vessel Performance Models (VPM)

Sofar Ocean Data Scientist Galen Egan, PhD provides an in-depth explanation of Vessel Performance Models (VPM) and breaks down the key components of our Wayfinder voyage optimization platform's AdaptiveVPM™.

**Date:** April 26, 2023

A Vessel Performance Model (VPM) is a key component of an [effective voyage optimization platform](/content/posts/voyage-optimization-white-paper?utm_source=sow&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=wf_vpm_0423/index.html). A VPM calculates the relationship between a vessel’s propeller RPM, engine power, speed, and fuel consumption, and predicts how that relationship will change in different sea states. A VPM’s predictions, in turn, inform the route guidance that a voyage optimization platform sends to a Captain. In the video above, Sofar Ocean Data Scientist Galen Egan, PhD provides an in-depth explanation of VPMs, detailing:

- Why it is essential that a VPM accurately predicts speed and fuel consumption in all weather conditions
- Why a VPM’s predictions are valuable to Captains and Navigational Officers, as well as shoreside teams
- How AdaptiveVPM™ — the vessel performance model powering Sofar’s [Wayfinder](/content/products/wayfinder?utm_source=sow&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=wf_vpm_0423/index.html) voyage optimization platform — predicts vessel speed within an average of 0.5 knots and fuel consumption within an average of 2% of metric tons consumed

To schedule a demo with the Wayfinder team, please fill out this [form](/content/signup/wayfinder-demo?utm_source=sow&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=wf_vpm_0423/index.html).