The pilot's foot is the margin left under the keel to sail without risk. Depending on the sea conditions, it can be varied. In heavy seas, for example, this margin can be increased, while in very calm weather, the pilot foot can be reduced. 50 cm remains a good figure when sailing a pleasure boat.
A 2 m probe
If the map indicates a 2 m probe, this measurement was taken at low tide at the highest tidal coefficients. Probes are shown with a coefficient of 120, a coefficient that is unreachable even during the highest tides. The highest coefficient reached was 119 in 2015. The water height of 2 m will therefore never be smaller, especially since in our example the coefficient is low, 68.
Wet!
It is therefore possible to anchor at this position without risk of running aground. You will always have more than 2 m of water whatever the time of tide you arrive, even if you stay at anchor for several days and the coefficient changes.
- 1 - the water sorting. 1 m in our example
- 2 - the pilot's foot, 50 cm in our example, which is added to the draught
- 3 - the 2 m probe measured at low tide with a coefficient of 120
Whatever the time of day and the tidal range, you will always have 2 m of water at this location. Your draught and your pilot's foot are 1.50 m, which is less than the minimum water height. You can therefore stay at anchor!
