Large-amplitude steady rotational water waves

Two-dimensional, finite-depth periodic water waves with general vorticity and large amplitude are computed. The mathematical formulation and numerical method that allow us to compute a continuum of such waves with arbitrary vorticity are described. The problems of whether extreme waves exist, where their stagnation points occur, and what qualitative features such waves possess are addressed here with particular emphasis on constant vorticity. (C) 2007 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.