Timing an atoll pass exit to avoid standing waves

When leaving an atoll through a pass under sail, timing the exit around slack water or the switch to incoming tide is the goal. During an outgoing current, the water rushing out of the lagoon against an ocean swell creates standing waves that can be dangerous and uncomfortable. By waiting for slack or the turn to incoming, the current is minimal and the pass stays flat. Lauren specifically plans to raise anchor and motor out through Rangiroa's pass timed to slack or incoming so there are no standing waves to contend with.