🔍 Key Concepts

• Tidal currents in entrances and straits often build up gradually, reach a maximum (peak) rate, then decrease • A vessel needs time to get well inside the channel or strait before the current reaches full strength • Consider the difference between the predicted time of maximum current and when you actually want to arrive at the entrance

💭 Think About

• Do you want to arrive exactly when the current first starts to become favorable, right at its peak, or slightly before that peak so you can ride it longer? • How does having some time in the favorable current before reaching the narrowest or most critical part of the strait help with control and safety? • Look at the choices and think: which option lets you use the strongest part of the favorable current over the longest useful distance?

✅ Before You Answer

• Check the definition of predicted time of favorable (maximum) current in the tide and current tables • Consider how long it takes your vessel to move from the entrance into the main body of the strait with the current helping you • Verify which option positions you in the strait as the current is building toward or just reaching its strongest point, not after it has already begun to diminish