The scope of this research is to find an empirical formula to describe the distribution of wave overtopping in the region behind the crest. A physical model was set up in which irregular waves were generated. In order to find a formula which adequately describes the test observations, the influence of several parameters has been analysed. The proper determination of the crest freeboard, which is a dominant factor, has been investigated. Finally, the test results have been used to assess and compare the existing relevant computational methods.