THE BOOK OF TIDES
Ten years after the original Book of Tides was pulished, this Pocket Edition distils the most important coastal knowledge into a clear, visual guide that anyone can understand.
Specially designed for beginners and students, this digital edition has full page illustrations and simple explanations, helping you quickly grasp the basics of tides, streams, winds, waves and rips.
What you’ll learn…
The book is based on our tried-and-tested 'Tide School Method' that simplifies the complexity of the sea into its five basic elements; tides, streams, winds, waves and rips.
1 -Tides
Learn how the moon creates tide waves that moves around the Earth. You’ll understand how these waves makes sea levels rise and fall, why tides change through the day, and how fast-moving water creates danger. Once you can read the tide wave, the coast becomes predictable.
2 - Streams
Discover how the tide waves moving past the coastline creates streams. You’ll learn why water speeds up for three hours, slows for three hours, and changes direction at slack water. Understanding how streams are driven by the tide wave helps you choose safe times to swim, paddle, and cross water.
3 - Winds
Understand how wind shapes the sea before you even arrive at the beach. You’ll learn how wind direction and strength affect waves and surface conditions. This chapter helps you predict rough water, offshore danger, and sudden changes, so you’re never caught out by conditions you didn’t expect.
4 - Waves
Learn where waves come from, how they travel, and why some beaches are calm while others are dangerous. You’ll understand wave height, wave period, and why small-looking waves can still be powerful. This knowledge helps you recognise shorebreak, sneaker waves, and choose safer places to be near the water.
5 - Rips
Learn how rip currents form, how to spot them, and why calm-looking water can be dangerous. You’ll see the natural signs the sea gives you and understand how rips move. Most importantly, you’ll learn what to do if you’re caught in one, so panic never takes over.
