Crossing a Sandbar Safely: Set Your Depth Offset

We’re about to cross a shallow entrance with a deep keel, so guessing isn’t an option. In this video, I show a simple way to verify actual depth with a line and a knot—then how to use that real number to set your depth sounder “offset” correctly. Key idea: your sounder measures from the transducer, not necessarily from the keel or the waterline—so the offset must be set intentionally. I’ll also show the easiest way to avoid mental math: draw a quick diagram of depth vs keel draft so you know exactly what number you need to see on the display to stay safe. 00:00 - Shallow Sandbar Crossing Setup 00:43 - DIY Depth Measurement (Line + Knot Method) 01:12 - Confirming True Depth (Measure the Line) 01:48 - Transducer Location Changes the Offset #sailing #boating #sailor #sailingschool