Which factor must be considered regarding tides when planning a boating trip?

When planning a boating trip, understanding how tides can alter navigational conditions is crucial for ensuring safety and efficiency on the water. Tides can significantly affect water depth, current strength, and the accessibility of certain waterways. For example, low tides may expose hazards such as rocks and sandbars that could be submerged at higher water levels, making it critical to time your trip around tidal changes to avoid potential grounding or collisions.

Moreover, tidal currents can influence the speed at which a boat travels and can make certain routes more difficult or hazardous to navigate. By considering these factors, boaters can better plan their journey, mitigate risks, and enhance their overall boating experience by choosing the safest and most effective routes. On the other hand, while marina availability, weather forecasts, and local events like boat races can also be important considerations, they do not directly impact the fundamental navigational conditions created by tidal changes.