Modeling surface current circulation in outer Ambon Bay, Moluccas - Indonesia

Current in the sea surface layer are dominantly influenced by wind friction, tides, and external factor that affects the water surface, generally these ocean currents are referred to the surface currents. In semi-enclosed waters, surface currents will be more complex if influenced by the open sea, such as in the Outer Ambon Bay (OAB) wherein directly opposite the Banda Sea. The purpose of this research is to analyze the surface current circulation pattern in OAB. Modeling MIKE 21 FM was used to determine the pattern of surface current circulation, and mooring data of surface currents is used as model verification. In model analysis, the main factor of surface currents was considered by tidal forces i.e. spring tide and neap tide. Analysis of data validation between model and mooring shows RMSE value for tidal is 0.089 and for the tide current is 0.003 at Spring tide and 0.005 at neap tide. Model result shows the surface current pattern entering the OAB from the east side and exits the OAB on the west side of the bay. Wherein the surface current pattern generally will be divided into two parts, when it reaches the center of the bay in flood tide phase.