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Passage planning

Why plan the return before leaving?

Short answer

Return may face different tide, weather, fuel, daylight, and crew condition

Return occurs later with changed conditions and resources, so a reciprocal line needs new appraisal. Mirroring the route or delegating the decision hides changes. Revise Treat the Return as a New Operating Problem.

Sources and scope

Reviewed by Richard Moore on . This answer is scoped to united kingdom and general recreational seamanship; check the current chart, publication, local rules and official operational guidance before acting afloat.

Quick check

Why plan the return before leaving?