Nautical Term: Wales

Definition of Wales

The nautical term Wales refers to a specific type of underwater formation. These formations, also known as mud shoals or mud banks, are composed mainly of soft, unconsolidated sediments.

For example, in the following passage from a maritime journal, the term Wales is used to describe a particular underwater feature:

During a recent survey of the area around the Scilly Isles, our team discovered a large Wales extending from a depth of approximately 20 meters to just below the surface. This Wales, which is composed mainly of mud and silt, is a significant hazard to navigation in the area.

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