A system-based method for predicting vessel maneuverability is critical for real-time digital twin applications in autonomous shipping. This study uses a CFD-aided Planar Motion Mechanism (PMM) captive test results to drive Froude number (Fr)-sensitive derivatives and systematically qualify their impact on maneuvering performance, which remains underexplored. Results indicate that nonlinear derivatives including static term \({N}_{vvv}{\prime}\) , yaw-rate terms \({X}_{rr}{\prime}\) , \({N}_{rrr}{\prime}\) , and yaw–drift coupled terms \({X}_{vr}{\prime}\) , \({N}_{vrr}{\prime}\) are notably sensitive to Fr. The hydrodynamic derivatives derived from lower order harmonics of hydrodynamic forces and moment are shown to dominate the vessel’s hydrodynamic response and are thus recommended for use in the system-based method—Maneuvering Modeling Group (MMG) model. Applying derivatives derived at Fr = 0.26 significantly improved turning-circle predictions, bringing them much closer to the free-running model test data. The difference in tactical diameter and advance was reduced to 1%, compared to 14% when using derivatives at Fr = 0.201. Conversely, zigzag maneuver predictions were more accurate when using derivatives derived at Fr = 0.201, with a maximum overshoot angle difference of 18%, compared to 26% when using derivatives derived at Fr = 0.26.
