Tremble Island and the Nakwakto Rapids

The Guinness Book of World Records lists Nakwakto Rapids as the fastest flowing tidal rapids in the world that can be navigated. Tidal currents flow as much as 16 knots on large spring tides. In the center of the narrow passage that drains several hundred miles of fjords from Seymour and Belize Inlets stands Tremble Island. It is reported to actually tremble from maximum currents. Brave Captains and their crews have tacked vessel names to the trees that grow on the island. We were not so farsighted nor did we wish to dawdle since on big Spring tides the slack current is reported to be less than 6 minutes.

Although the Nakwakto Indians were experts at predicting current flow based upon their knowledge of the moon's influence on tides our captain favors more scientific methods. We carefully charted the time of our passage and planned to be at the rapids shortly before high slack which is the safest time for passage. Fortunately, we were not traveling on a large tide and the predicted currents were well within a safe range for our vessel. Carefully we nosed into the edge of the rapids heading for the smooth laminar flow bordered by small whirl pools and boils. It was thrilling for us but not a dangerous passage.

Not all captains take the responsibility for their crew and guests so seriously as does Captain Doug. In a harbor on Eden Island a captain told us that his 36 foot cruiser had been stood literally on end in a whirl pool as he entered Nakwakto Rapids. Take care who captains your vessel.