What does the symbol Group of rocks, bare or awash signify on coastal charts?

• A. A group of rocks that are bare or awash
• B. A single rock protruding above water
• C. A submerged reef system
• D. A sand and gravel deposit

Answer: (A)

Interpreting coastal chart symbols for hazards: a group of rocks, bare or awash marks a cluster of rocks that lie in or near the water surface and may not always be visible. The phrase bare or awash tells you that these rocks can be dry at low water (bare) or at the water surface at some tides (awash). Because their visibility changes with the tide, they pose a navigation hazard that you must plan around, keeping well clear and considering current tide and depth. This isn’t describing a single rock above water, a submerged reef system, or a sand and gravel deposit, which have different symbols and implications.