View the tide times for Roscanvel in Finistère, Brittany. The average tidal range of 4.7m creates dynamic coastal conditions, revealing rock pools and sandy stretches at low tide while offering excellent conditions for water sports at high tide.
Our comprehensive tide tables for Roscanvel include precise high and low tide times, real-time coefficients, and weather forecasts. The 4.7m tidal range requires careful planning for shore fishing, sailing, and beach activities. Check the daily schedule before heading to the coast.
Average tidal range: 4.7 metres
Ephemeris for Sunday 18 October
Tidal Characteristics at Roscanvel
Roscanvel experiences a moderate tidal range of 4.7m, producing noticeable changes in water level between high and low tide. At low water, rock pools and sandy areas are exposed — perfect for exploration and shore fishing. The tidal currents remain manageable, but it is still important to check the tide schedule before heading out.
Water Sports & Activities
Swimming
Check the tide times at Roscanvel to find the best swimming conditions. At high tide, the water is deeper and more accessible from the beach. Always swim in supervised areas and be aware of currents, especially during spring tides.
High tide
Calm sea
Sea Kayaking
Kayaking at Roscanvel requires careful attention to tide times. Launch at high tide for easier access and deeper water. The 4.7m tidal range creates varying paddling conditions. Watch for tidal currents, especially near headlands and channels.
High tide ± 2h
Light wind
Shore Fishing
Shore fishing at Roscanvel follows the tide schedule closely. As the tide drops, rock pools and sandbanks are exposed, revealing shellfish and crabs. The 4.7m tidal range at spring tides opens up the richest foraging grounds.
Low tide
Variable
Surfing
Surf conditions at Roscanvel depend on tide times and swell direction. Mid-tide often provides the best waves as the tidal range of 4.7m shapes the break. Check forecasts for optimal sessions.
Mid-tide
Offshore wind
Sailing
Sailing from Roscanvel requires awareness of the tide times. The 4.7m tidal range affects harbour access and channel depths. Plan departure and return around high water for the easiest navigation.
High tide ± 3h
Moderate wind
Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding at Roscanvel is best around high tide when the water is calm and deep. The 4.7m tidal range means low tide may expose rocks and shallow areas. Check conditions before heading out.
High tide
Calm sea
Shore Fishing
Shore fishing at Roscanvel is closely tied to the tide schedule. The best opportunities come as the tide drops, exposing rock pools, shellfish beds, and sandy flats. Common species found during low-tide foraging include clams, cockles, mussels, razor clams, and crabs. Always check the tide times and coefficients before heading out — spring tides with high coefficients reveal the richest foraging grounds. A valid fishing permit is required, and minimum size regulations must be respected to protect marine resources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tides
What time is the next high tide at Roscanvel?
Check the real-time tide schedule at the top of this page for the next high tide at Roscanvel. The calendar shows precise times for the coming days. Remember to also check the weather forecast and water temperature to plan your coastal activities safely.
Does the wind affect tide times at Roscanvel?
High and low tide times at Roscanvel are calculated astronomically and do not change with the wind. However, weather conditions do influence actual water levels: a strong offshore wind can lower high tide levels by 10-30cm, while an onshore wind can raise them. These variations should be considered during spring tides.
How do I read a tide table?
The tide table for Roscanvel shows alternating high and low tides throughout the day. Coefficients (shown for each high tide) indicate the amplitude: with a tidal range of 4.7m, a coefficient of 100 will produce much larger water level changes than a coefficient of 40. Use these figures to plan your activities safely.
Why do tide times change every day at Roscanvel?
Tide times shift by approximately 50 minutes each day because the Moon takes 24 hours and 50 minutes to complete one orbit relative to any point on Earth. Coefficients also vary with the alignment of Earth, Moon, and Sun: when aligned (full or new moon), tides are amplified — these are spring tides.
What is the tidal range at Roscanvel?
The average tidal range at Roscanvel in Brittany is 4.7 metres. This represents the typical difference between high and low water levels. During spring tides (coefficient above 90), the range can be considerably greater, while neap tides produce smaller differences.
Understanding Tides
Tides at Roscanvel are driven by the gravitational pull of the Moon and Sun on the Earth's oceans. Along the Atlantic coast, the tidal pattern is semi-diurnal: two high tides and two low tides occur every 24 hours and 50 minutes. The tidal range varies with the lunar cycle — it is greatest during spring tides (new and full moon) and smallest during neap tides (quarter moons). The shape of the coastline, the seabed profile, and the continental shelf all amplify or reduce the tidal range locally.
Spring Tides
During spring tides at Roscanvel (coefficients above 90), the tidal range can exceed the average 4.7m significantly. Take these precautions: always check the tide times before walking on the foreshore; never turn your back on the sea; be aware that the incoming tide can advance very rapidly, potentially cutting off your return route; stay well away from sea walls and harbour edges where waves can overtop; keep children under close supervision. In case of difficulty, call emergency services on 196 (sea rescue).
Nearby Ports
Practical Information
Average tidal range
4.7 metres
Coast type
Atlantic coast
Department
Finistère (29)
