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Course Outline

Tides are created by the sun and moon exerting a pull on the earth. Pleasure craft operators in coastal waters need to be mindful of the effect of tides. The rise and fall of tides can cause water levels to fluctuate by several metres and also can generate strong currents. Some tidal currents are strong enough that some pleasure craft cannot make headway against the current.

The hours and heights of high and low waters caused by tides are predictable. Other factors, such as atmospheric pressure changes, strong prolonged winds, and variations of freshwater discharge, may cause changes between the predicted tides and the actual tides.

As a pleasure craft operator, you need to know about the tides and currents in your boating area.

Where to Find Tide and Current Tables

For tide, current, and water level information, visit:

  • Unit 4 of 6
  • Topic 5 of 9
  • Page 2 of 2