Tide and Current Software for the PNW

[River Bank]

Hello Tugnuts
When I (ever) get my 2010 R25 systems all working properly I want to travel up to Campbell River/Desolation Sound from Nanaimo, BC. It will be my first and inaugural cruise and will be making it "solo." Yes, with some trepredation on my part, but I have to do it.

I want to use "Tide and Current" information to make the trip safely and efficiently, so I am asking for suggestions recommending computer software that I could use on my PC or Ipod (without the need for an Internet connection while underway).

If you have something simple and easy to read/interpret in mind I would appreciate your suggestion.


I'm 74 and have a wife that hates boating and the water - married for over 30 years, go figure?

Yes, I bought the boat (my first) and told her about it post-purchase! Yeah........!!!

Tide and Current software.

Cheers, Bob /// Merlot /// Nanaimo

 

[Bruce Moore]

There are a number of apps which I'm sure folks will recommend, but there are two paper products I wouldn't be without.

Ports and Passes which is an excellent reference for tides and currents, especially in those places (i.e. rapids and narrows) where they are critical.

The Current Atlas - Juan de Fuca Strait to Strait of Georgia and the annual Current Atlas Lookup Table companion. In combination these provide excellent visual hour by hour visualizations of current flow. Great planning tool.

I pick up Ports and Passes and the new Current Atlas Lookup Table at the boat show in January.

Cheers,

Bruce

 

[baz]

Curious to know what time of year you plan for this cruise... thanks.

I would also recommend as you will be 'solo' is to have the Spot 2 device so your family and friends know your location at all times. See example at Amazon and read the reviews. http://www.amazon.com/SPOT-Satellite-Messenger-Orange-Black/dp/B002PHRDO2. It's not perfect but should allow others to know eher you are. There may be other such devices so give them some consideration also before buying. I believe others here have used Spot 2 device so search this forum for their use experiences.

Make sure your pre-planning passes muster and leave a copy of it with 1st Mate and family/friends.

If you are with Cell coverage make a habit of calling 1st Mate on a schedule to say how you're fairing.

 

[dencarst]

Hi

If you have a Garmin 5212 they should have most the information needed including currents. I used it when we went
to Desolation Sound and I was surprise it show the Dodd Narrows times of passage. It is a great tool.

Dennis
Tug of my Heart

 

[River Bank]

Tugnutters

Thanks to all for all the information and Dennis I will study my 5212 Garmin manual tonight.

Thanks, Bob