New Moon
February 27, 2025
A New Moon is the lunar phase when the Moon lies between Earth and the Sun, leaving little or no moonlight on the water. For mariners, it marks a predictable point in the lunar cycle that affects night visibility and tidal range.
New Moon passages often mean darker watches, reduced horizon definition, and greater reliance on instruments, lookout discipline, and correct Navigation Lights. Because the Sun and Moon are aligned, New Moon periods commonly produce Spring Tide conditions, with stronger Tidal Current and larger differences between high and low water.
When planning entrances, bar crossings, anchoring, or night sailing, check local tide predictions alongside wind, swell, and cloud forecasts. PredictWind tidal charts, tidal stream maps, and weather forecasts help crews choose safer departure windows and anticipate whether the lack of moonlight will combine with adverse sea or visibility conditions.
