What is wake & wash when boating?

Wake and wash are two terms that are often used to describe the waves created by a boat as it moves through the water.

Wake

The wake is the series of waves that trail behind a boat as it moves through the water. The size and shape of the wake can vary depending on the size and speed of the boat, as well as the shape of the hull and other factors. In general, larger and faster boats create larger wakes that can be challenging for other boats, swimmers, or shorelines to navigate.

Wash

The wash is the turbulent water that is created by the boat's propeller as it moves through the water. The size and shape of the wash can also vary depending on the boat and other factors. The wash can be especially challenging for swimmers or small boats, as it can create a strong current that can be difficult to swim against or navigate.

Both wake and wash can be potentially dangerous, especially in crowded or narrow waterways. It is important for boaters to be aware of the impact of their wake and wash on other boaters, swimmers, and shorelines, and to take steps to minimize their impact. This can include slowing down, avoiding crowded areas, or adjusting course to minimize the size and impact of the wake and wash.