Tides

Tide and current tables are notoriously unreliable because of the barometric pressure, geographic patterns and the condition of the Fraser River. The time tides turn may vary up to an hour from the predicted time. The freighters are a good indicator of the flow of the water in the Bay

Tide tables for Point Atkinson are useful for tidal height; whereas, tide tables for First Narrows are useful for current change and predicted slack water. Tide tables are available from marine retailers in the area. The current velocity at First Narrows is of no use to racers because it will always be significantly higher than what would ever occur on the race course.

Relatively speaking, the current is always rotating clockwise. The flood is harder outshore and weaker inshore due to the changing depth of the bay. Generally speaking, if you are heading west, sail along the south shore and if you are heading east, sail in the middle of the Bay.

The dominant line of flood flows from Point Grey to First Narrows heading into Burrard Inlet (figure 5). The dominant ebb occurs north of the race course along the north shore of the Bay due to the outflow from the Burrard Inlet (figure 6). The most important transition happens from the high flood to an ebb. This is where an often advantageous south shore, backeddie easterly current is created (figure 5).

There are two main indicators of current in the water:

Normally between the fresher, silty Fraser River water and the clear salt water. This tideline is created by a vertical shear of the two waters (figure 7). There may be a band of flotsam (floating debris) caught between the surface layers of the two different current regimes.

These tidelines often mark an abrupt change in the speed and direction of the near surface currents; therefore there is almost certainly a benefit to being on one side or another so watch the water carefully. Do not assume what you think to be happening on either side of the tide line to be true. It is essential to test your theory by watching other boats as they sail into the different water.

Bands of ripples on the water about 23 metres (75 ft) across running parallel to wind typically occur in flood conditions. These 'tidal rivers' flow to the west so it is important to sail in the rippled water (when heading west). These are likely again the result of the mixing of fresh and salt water.

If the wind is greater than 15 knots you will not be able to see the rows of disturbed water...you will just notice that some boats will seem to have their own personal favourable water. If you do notice a band it is important to sail to it, it is not something that will ever reach you.