Convert Chains to Fathoms
This tool converts Chains (ch) to Fathoms (ftm) using a clear formula and reference table. Ideal for surveying, marine measurement, engineering, research, and education.
Result
ftm
Conversion Formula
1 chain × 20.1168 → 20.1168 m 20.1168 m ÷ 1.8288 → 11 fathom
About Chain (ch) and Fathom (ftm)
What is a Chain (ch)?
A Chain (ch) is a traditional unit of length primarily used in surveying and land measurement.
One chain equals 66 feet. This unit helps define land boundaries, construction site layouts, and mapping tasks where consistent linear measurement is required.
1 ch = 66 feet
What is a Fathom (ftm)?
A Fathom (ftm) is a unit of length commonly applied to vertical or depth-based measurements, such as maritime depth readings or cable lengths.
One fathom equals 6 feet.
1 ftm = 6 feet
What Does This Converter Do?
This converter transforms Chains (ch) into Fathoms (ftm), linking land-based measurement to depth-oriented measurement.
It is useful for mapping, navigation, marine engineering, field surveying, and structured documentation where both units may appear in technical references.
How to Convert Chains to Fathoms
Because:
1 ch = 66 feet
1 ftm = 6 feet
We use the relationship:
Fathoms = Chains × 66 ÷ 6
To simplify:
1 ch = 11 ftm
Why Convert Chains to Fathoms?
Both units originate from practical measurement needs, but they are used in different contexts:
Chains: primarily for horizontal land distances.
Fathoms: primarily for vertical or depth distances.
Converting between them allows engineers, surveyors, and researchers to unify measurement data in technical documents, geospatial studies, marine layouts, and archival record interpretation.
What is the difference between chains, fathoms, and feet?
Unit | Description | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
Chain (ch) | 66 feet | Land surveying and mapping |
Fathom (ftm) | 6 feet | Depth measurement and marine applications |
Foot (ft) | Base unit of linear length | General measurement |
Conversion Tools & Features
Instant numerical conversion
Visible calculation formula
Copyable final result formatting
Simple re-entry for repeated conversions
Output suitable for technical records, charts, and measurement logs
Use Cases
Mapping and Surveying
Convert legacy land measurements into formats suitable for depth or scale comparison.
Marine Engineering
Align land-based planning dimensions with offshore system specifications.
Education
Clarify relationships between traditional length units in technical coursework.
Research and Documentation
Maintain consistent unit formats in field recordings, historic boundary analysis, or navigation record interpretation.
Construction and Design
Integrate land and water measurement data into unified project planning models.
Conversion Table for Chains and Fathoms
Using the formula:
Fathoms = Chains × 66 ÷ 6
or simply:
1 ch = 11 ftm
Chains (ch) | Conversion Formula | Equivalent in Fathoms (ftm) | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
1 ch | 1 × 66 ÷ 6 | 11 ftm | 11 ftm |
0.1 ch | 0.1 × 66 ÷ 6 | 1.1 ftm | 1.1 ftm |
2 ch | 2 × 66 ÷ 6 | 22 ftm | 22 ftm |
5 ch | 5 × 66 ÷ 6 | 55 ftm | 55 ftm |
10 ch | 10 × 66 ÷ 6 | 110 ftm | 110 ftm |
20 ch | 20 × 66 ÷ 6 | 220 ftm | 220 ftm |
50 ch | 50 × 66 ÷ 6 | 550 ftm | 550 ftm |
100 ch | 100 × 66 ÷ 6 | 1100 ftm | 1100 ftm |
500 ch | 500 × 66 ÷ 6 | 5500 ftm | 5500 ftm |
1000 ch | 1000 × 66 ÷ 6 | 11000 ftm | 11000 ftm |
Notes
1 ch = 66 ft
1 ftm = 6 ft
Therefore, 1 ch = 11 ftm
This table and guide demonstrate how units originally developed for distinct physical environments can be expressed together with consistent scaling — linking terrestrial measurement practices with marine depth standards.