Wake

A wake is the disturbed water left behind a vessel as its hull, propeller, rudder and running surface move through the sea. It appears as waves, turbulence and aerated water spreading astern and outwards, varying with hull shape, speed, displacement, trim and sea conditions.

Wake matters because it can affect other craft, swimmers, moorings and shorelines, especially in narrow channels, marinas and anchorages. A large wake may cause Roll, increase collision risk near the Stern of passing traffic, and interact with Tidal Current to create steep, confused water. Skippers are responsible for reducing speed where no-wake rules, traffic density or vessel vulnerability require it.

For passage planning, consider how forecast wind, waves and current will combine with wash from ferries, commercial craft and high-speed powerboats. PredictWind wave and current forecasts help identify areas where wake may be amplified by shallow water or opposing flow, supporting safer routing and more considerate boat handling.