Modelling significant wave height distributions with quantile functions for estimation of extreme wave heights

► Extreme wave height analysis using quantile functions, is introduced as an alternative to the use of probability distributions. ► Four quantile functions are considered Davies, 3 parameter Weibull, generalized extreme value and generalized Pareto. ► The data from four locations is used to test the performance of the functions. ► All extreme value quantile functions provide adequate wave height models. ► The Davies quantile function seems to be consistently better for extreme wave analysis.