Sail Away Camp's useful links.

Discussion of tidal predictions for the back bay:

Because it takes extra time for tidal flows to enter and leave the back bay, Sail Away Camp Instructors add one hour to Morro Bay predictions (or two hours to Los Angeles predictions). For example, a +3.5 foot tide listed for 10 am in LA or 11am in Morro Bay will actually be highest at noon in the waters near the Baywood Pier.

We find that you need nearly +2.5 feet to sail a Sabot or El Toro, at least +3 feet for a Pelican, and +5 feet to have much fun in a DaySailer. A "kick-up" rudder* is a big convenience for push-off and landing. Near the Baywood Pier it is possible to kayak or canoe with a tide somewhat less than +2.5 ft., but the mud encountered when launching and landing can be very mucky.

The Baywood Navy tide chart is based on Morro Bay predictions. Tides of +2.5 feet or more are considered suitable for sailing in the back bay according to their system. (Their link is listed above.)

Keep this in mind anytime you are sailing in the back bay: If your boat seems to be stopped and not responding to the rudder you are probably stuck in the mud. Try raising the centerboard or daggerboard. Tilt up the rudder if you can. (See the kick-up rudder page.)

Whatever predictions you use, don't venture far from the Baywood shoreline on a tide falling below two and a half feet!!!! Trying to push your boat across back bay mud isn't fun after the first ten yards, but it can be done. Just keep most of your weight on the boat as you shove it along. If it's a small boat (such as a kayak, canoe, or sail or rowing boat less than 12 feet or so) you can get back to shore this way, but it's messy and it's hard work! The best plan is not to venture out unless you are sure of what the tide will be doing.