A coupled dynamic analysis of a floating wind turbine system has been performed to investigate effect of wave direction relative to wind on the system. Hydrodynamic loads are calculated by linear frequency domain approach and aerodynamic effect is taken into account by increasing hydrodynamic damping and restoring matrices with aerodynamic damping and gyroscopic stiffness. A modal analysis of the system was made to explain the calculated motions. It brings out the natural frequencies, natural modes and modal damping coefficients of the system. Excitation of natural modes, by waves explains the motion observed in the response amplitude operators, and the effect of wave direction relative to wind. This modal analysis helps to better understand the behaviour of floating wind turbine systems. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.