In the Mediterranean, a high-seas bulletin, a national coastal forecast and an app’s point forecast answer different questions. A short distance between harbours can cross forecast areas or exposed channels. Check the specific national zone, not only the broad basin label.
Build a source stack
The WMO/IMO METAREA III page links international bulletins for the Mediterranean and Black Seas, including eastern and western products. For western areas, Météo-France Marine and Spain’s AEMET marine service publish their own forecasts and warnings. Elsewhere, open the responsible national meteorological service for the coast and sea area you will use. The WMO portal warns that relayed products can be delayed.
What to check on a short passage
- Identify the exact coastal and offshore zones for the start, exposed leg and arrival.
- Read current warnings and the latest text forecast with its validity time and units.
- Compare wind direction and gusts with the geography of capes, channels and the intended anchorage.
- Look at wind waves, swell, visibility and thunderstorm risk along the route—not just at departure.
- Keep an alternate harbour or a reason to postpone, and set the time for the next bulletin.
A model’s grid cell can miss local acceleration or shelter. Equally, a sheltered anchorage can become exposed after a wind shift. No fixed wind or wave threshold on this page can decide for your vessel and crew.
Source check: 24 September 2026. Follow current official warnings before departure and during the voyage.