If your ship has a deep draft of 36' and you know that you must cross a bar, at a depth of 32', to enter a harbor, which moon condition would you be hoping to find when the sky clears?

Official USCG Answer & Rule Citation

Correct Answer: Option D — Spring, perigee

Spring tides occur when the sun and moon are aligned, maximizing tidal range. Perigee occurs when the moon is closest to Earth, further increasing gravitational pull. This combination produces the highest high tides, providing the maximum possible under-keel clearance required to safely cross a shallow bar.

100% Free & Open Access — No daily limits, paywalls, or gated answers on BrightMariner.