Rise Fall Tide at www.japanese-home-gardens.com

DEFINITIONS . v The height of tide at any specified location and time is the vertical distance between the surface of the water and a designated tidal datum, usually mean lower low water (the average over a 19-year cycle of all of the lower levels of the two low waters of a tidal day, which usually are not the same). Do not confuse this measurement with the depth of the water! High water (sometimes called "high tide") is the highest level reached by a rising tide. Low water (or "low tide") is the lowest level of a falling tide. Tidal range is the difference between high and low waters.The change in levels does not occur uniformly. From a low water, the level starts to rise fall tide slowly, the rate increases to a maximum near the middle of the rise fall tide, then slows as high water is approached; the opposite occurs with a falling tide.

Tides originate in the open oceans, but are only significant near shore. They are noticeable along coastal beaches, in bays and sounds, and up rivers as far as the first rapids or dam. Oddly, the rise fall tide and fall of tide may be greater a hundred miles or more up a river than it is at its mouth.

The method for getting afloat again will vary with the situation. In some cases, all that is required is patience—just wait for the tide to rise fall tide. Even if the tide is now falling, it will rise fall tide again and may be enough to get you afloat, assuming you did not have the misfortune to run aground at high tide. You can lessen a boat's draft by pumping out the water tanks or taking off people and gear. Another tactic is to put out an anchor in the direction of deeper water, and then put a strain on the line by pulling, either by hand or using a winch or windlass. (If the tide is rising, and there is any wind or waves pushing you further into shallow water, putting out an anchor is highly recommended to prevent the Boat from being blown into shallower water.) You may then be able to get off using your own engines or sail power. In some situations, having a powerboat pass nearby to make a wake may help. Another Boat may be able to pull you off after passing a line; if you have hull damage, be sure that pulling you into deeper water doesn't worsen your situation.