How many feet are in a fathom?

A fathom is a unit of measurement commonly used in maritime contexts to describe water depth. It is specifically defined as equal to 6 feet. This measurement is particularly useful for mariners when gauging the depth of water, as it provides a standardized unit that is easy to work with when navigating.

The use of the fathom dates back to ancient maritime practices, and it continues to be a standard in navigation and fishing today. Understanding the relationship between fathoms and feet is essential for interpreting nautical charts and ensuring safe navigation in varying water depths.