When swimming in moving water, what is the desired ferry angle?

The desired ferry angle when swimming in moving water is 45 degrees to the current vector. This angle allows the swimmer to utilize body positioning effectively against the current's force while making necessary forward progress toward the intended destination.

By orienting at a 45-degree angle, the swimmer can counteract the lateral movement caused by the current and maintain a balance between pushing upstream and moving across the current. This approach reduces the likelihood of being swept downstream while providing a more stable and efficient technique for navigating safety in swift water.

In contrast, angles that are too steep, like 30 degrees, may not provide enough resistance against the current, while those that are too shallow, like 60 degrees, can result in being pushed downstream more effectively. An angle of 90 degrees to the current would lead directly into the current, making it difficult to progress towards the intended destination. Thus, a 45-degree ferry angle strikes the right balance for effective movement across the water's flow.