Just realized my map reading error cost me a whole afternoon on the Lost Coast

I misjudged the tide chart by a single hour, thinking I could cross a section before the water came up. Ended up stuck on a rock shelf for over four hours waiting for it to recede. Anyone have a foolproof system for timing those coastal sections?

2 comments

2 Comments

perez.elliot5d ago

Been there with the tide charts messing me up. Honestly I don't think a foolproof system exists, the ocean doesn't follow a perfect schedule. I always add a two hour buffer now, even if it means waiting around. Getting stuck once was enough for me to learn that lesson the hard way.

paul_stone415d agoTop Commenter

Ever think about how local weather can throw off tide charts more than the timing itself? A strong offshore wind can actually push water out and make low tide way lower than predicted, @perez.elliot. Your two-hour buffer is smart, but I also check the wind forecast now. A calm day versus a windy one can change everything, even if the tide chart says you're good.