This study examines the normalized maximum wave height, \({\widetilde{H}}_{max}={H}_{max}/{H}_{1/3}\) , a key parameter in assessing anomalous waves, coastal passenger ship operations. Data from six wave stations along the east coast of the Republic of Korea were used to estimate and analyze \({\widetilde{H}}_{max}\) through statistical measures and probability density functions. The main methods involved linear regression analysis with significant wave height and mean wave period as independent variables, introducing a novel regression model for unbiased estimation of \({\widetilde{H}}_{max}\) . The results indicate no significant differences in \({\widetilde{H}}_{max}\) across different stations, and fitting with the generalized extreme value distribution was feasible. Additionally, the \({\widetilde{H}}_{max}\) estimates were unbiased when modeled linearly with either significant wave height or mean wave period, though the optimal constant-based model exhibited some bias. A quantitative evaluation of the regression model's performance revealed that it accounted for only 25% of the variance in \({\widetilde{H}}_{max}\) , with the remaining variance attributed to residuals, which followed a right-skewed distribution slightly deviating from normal. These findings underscore the challenges in accurately modeling wave height variability and suggest directions for further research.
