The Rule of Thirds is a guideline used in sea kayaking to estimate the distance that a tidal current will carry an object during each hour of the tidal cycle, rather than the speed of the current itself. This article will provide a detailed explanation of how the Rule of Thirds works and its application in planning and navigating sea kayaking trips.
How Does the Rule of Thirds Work?
What is the Tidal Cycle Segmentation in the Rule of Thirds?
The Rule of Thirds divides the six-hour tidal cycle into segments based on the cumulative distance the current travels during each hour.
What are the Distance Proportions in the Rule of Thirds?
The rule states that during the six-hour tidal cycle, the current will travel:
- 1/3 of the maximum distance in the first hour.
- 2/3 of the maximum distance in the second hour.
- 3/3 (or the full maximum distance) in the third and fourth hours.
- 2/3 of the maximum distance in the fifth hour.
- 1/3 of the maximum distance in the sixth hour.
How Can the Rule of Thirds Be Applied in Predicting Tidal Currents?
How Can the Rule of Thirds Be Used to Estimate Drift?
By knowing the maximum tidal speed for a given area, you can calculate the distance you will drift with the current during each hour. For example, if the maximum tidal speed is 3 nautical miles per hour, you would drift:
- 1 nautical mile in the first hour.
- 2 nautical miles in the second hour.
- 3 nautical miles in the third and fourth hours.
- 2 nautical miles in the fifth hour.
- 1 nautical mile in the sixth hour.
How Can the Rule of Thirds Be Combined with Paddling Speed?
To plan your trip, you can combine your paddling speed with the drift caused by the tidal current. For instance, if you paddle at 3 knots (approximately 6 kilometers per hour) and the tide is with you, you would cover:
- 4 nautical miles in the first hour (3 nautical miles paddled + 1 nautical mile drifted).
- 5 nautical miles in the second hour (3 nautical miles paddled + 2 nautical miles drifted).
- 6 nautical miles in the third hour (3 nautical miles paddled + 3 nautical miles drifted).
How Can the Rule of Thirds Be Used in Planning and Navigating Sea Kayaking Trips?
How Can the Rule of Thirds Help with Timing and Slack Water?
Understanding when the tide will be at its maximum and minimum speeds helps in planning your trip to avoid or utilize the currents effectively. The Rule of Thirds, combined with knowledge of slack water times, allows you to navigate through areas with significant tidal activity more efficiently.
What Calculations and Measurements Are Needed for Using the Rule of Thirds?
To plan your trip, you need to know the maximum tidal speed for your area. You can then apply the Rule of Thirds to estimate how far you will drift each hour. This information, combined with your paddling speed, helps in determining your overall progress and in making decisions about when to paddle and when to rest.
Key Points for Trip Planning Using the Rule of Thirds
- Identify Maximum Tidal Speed: Obtain the maximum tidal speed for your area from tidal charts or local knowledge.
- Calculate Drift: Use the Rule of Thirds to estimate the distance you will drift each hour.
- Combine with Paddling Speed: Add your paddling speed to the drift to estimate your total progress.
- Plan Around Slack Water: Avoid paddling during peak tidal flows by planning your trip around slack water times.
Relevant References
- Paddling.com: “Kayaking in Tidal Streams” – This article explains the 50/90 Rule and the Rule of Thirds in detail, providing practical examples for sea kayakers.
- Bookdown: “Variation of flow through the tidal cycle” – This resource provides a detailed explanation of both the 50/90 Rule and the Rule of Thirds, highlighting their differences and applications.
- Caskaorg: “Rules for Tides: Thirds, 50/90, Twelfths” – This article clarifies the definitions and applications of the Rule of Thirds and the 50/90 Rule, emphasizing their use as guidelines rather than precise rules.