Tides & Currents

Question 1

Tidal Advisory Broadcast

Answer 1

Seattle VTS will broadcast an advisory when tide level is predicated to be in excess of 11ft. Broadcasts begin at least 30 minutes prior to the predicted tidal level of 11ft and continue every 30 minutes until the predicted tidal level has dropped below 11ft. Vessel to transit at safe speed to reduce risk of wake damage when tide exceeds 11ft.

Question 2

Mean Range

Answer 2

6.5 to 7.5ft

Question 3

Diurnal Range

Answer 3

10-11.5 ft

Question 4

Tides

Answer 4

Tide increases through the sound from North to South. Semi-Diurnal with Large Diurnal inequality.

Question 5

Currents North of Pt No Pt

Answer 5

In Admiralty Inlet and Puget Sound, currents are subject to daily inequalities. NW of Point No Point, velocities range from 2-7 knots.

Question 6

Currents South of Pt No Pt

Answer 6

South of Point No Point, waters are more open and velocities are much less.

Question 7

Rips

Answer 7

Heavy tide rips caused by strong NW winds and strong ebb currents in the vicinity of Point No Point and Apple Cove are encountered.

Question 8

Currents Agate Pass

Answer 8

Agate Pass velocities can be up to 6 knots or more. Flood sets SW, ebb NE.

Question 9

Currents Pt Wells

Answer 9

Pt. Wells current is unpredictable. Expect a set off the wharf for a port landing on a flood tide.

Question 10

Currents Shilshole and Port Madison

Answer 10

Currents Weak and Variable

Question 11

Currents in Winter

Answer 11

In winter when S winds prevail there is general a N surface drift which increases the ebb current and decreases the flood current