The video links M33's modest oil capacity and roughly eight-knot endurance to the practical problem of working close to shore. Wind, current, maneuvering, and changing sandbanks could all alter real range and fuel consumption, while the seabed itself could shift from day to day. A shallow-draught monitor could explore those altered waters with less risk than the larger ships carrying troops and supplies. Its movements therefore provided both bombardment support and practical knowledge of the channels leading toward the land campaign.
Chapter · 10:24-12:03
Fuel range and changing shoals close inshore
M33's fuel endurance varied with wind, current, and shifting shoals, while monitor movements also helped larger troop and supply ships understand the inshore channels.