Here's a breakdown of why:

* Tidal forces are strongest at the poles and weakest at the equator. This is due to the shape of the Earth and how the moon's gravitational pull affects different parts of the globe.

* Tidal range (the difference between high and low tide) is influenced by many factors:

* Distance from the moon: Tides are stronger when the moon is closer to Earth.

* Shape of the coastline: Narrow inlets and bays can experience larger tidal ranges.

* Presence of large landmasses: Large landmasses can block or amplify tidal waves.

* Depth of the ocean: Tidal ranges are typically smaller in deeper water.

Therefore, while tidal forces are weaker at the equator, tidal ranges can still be significant depending on other factors.

Example:

* The Bay of Fundy in Canada, located at a higher latitude, has some of the largest tidal ranges in the world.

* The Indian Ocean, which is largely equatorial, experiences significant tides, especially during the monsoon season.

In conclusion: The statement that tides are less near the equator is an oversimplification. While tidal forces are weaker at the equator, other factors play a crucial role in determining tidal range, and significant tides can occur even in equatorial regions.