The sea is never still. A current is a continuous, directed movement of seawater driven by wind, density differences, tides, or the Earth’s rotation.

Ocean currents such as the Gulf Stream affect route planning and fuel consumption on long passages. Tidal currents in coastal waters reverse with the tide and can reach several knots in narrow channels. Navigators apply current set and drift when calculating the course to steer.

Unexpected current can set a ship toward danger or reduce under-keel clearance. Real-time current information from models, buoys, and ship reports improves safety in pilotage waters. Understanding local current patterns is part of every pilot’s expertise.

• Directed flow of seawater
• Driven by wind, tide, density, or planetary forces
• Affects course, speed, and under-keel clearance
• Critical in coastal and pilotage navigation