Enter the coordinates of the first and second port into the calculator to determine the distance.

Port Distance Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the distance between two ports.

D = √[(x2 - x1)² + (y2 - y1)²]

Variables:

  • D is the distance between the two ports (nautical miles)
  • x1 and y1 are the coordinates (latitude and longitude) of the first port (degrees)
  • x2 and y2 are the coordinates (latitude and longitude) of the second port (degrees)

To calculate the distance between two ports, subtract the longitude of the first port from the longitude of the second port and square the result. Do the same for the latitudes. Add the two results together and take the square root of the sum. This will give you the distance in nautical miles.

What is a Port Distance?

A Port Distance refers to the measurement of the distance between two seaports. This measurement is typically used in the shipping and logistics industry to calculate the time and cost of transporting goods from one port to another. The distance is usually measured in nautical miles and can be influenced by factors such as the route chosen, weather conditions, and maritime regulations.

How to Calculate Port Distance?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Port Distance using the given formula:


  1. First, gather the values for x1, y1, x2, and y2.
  2. Next, substitute the values into the formula: D = √[(x2 – x1)² + (y2 – y1)²].
  3. Then, calculate (x2 – x1)² and (y2 – y1)².
  4. After that, add the results of (x2 – x1)² and (y2 – y1)².
  5. Finally, take the square root of the sum to find the Port Distance (D).

Example Problem:

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge:

x1 = 40 (latitude of the first port in degrees)

y1 = -73 (longitude of the first port in degrees)

x2 = 35 (latitude of the second port in degrees)

y2 = -80 (longitude of the second port in degrees)