Chart Navigation & Plotting · Speed-Time-Distance — 6-Minute Rule
Using the six-minute rule, a vessel making 18 knots travels how far in 6 minutes?
- A0.6 nautical mile
- B3.0 nautical miles
- C1.08 nautical miles
- D1.8 nautical miles✓ Correct
Explanation
Six minutes is one-tenth of an hour, so distance in nm = speed ÷ 10 = 18 ÷ 10 = 1.8 nm. The six-minute rule is a quick mental aid for piloting.
Authority: Bowditch, American Practical Navigator (Pub. No. 9)
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