An introduction for cruisers and racers to the structure and dynamics of the Gulf Stream system including consideration of the factors governing this major, North Atlantic, warm water current and its variability. Particular emphasis will be placed on the determination of Stream location, the extent to which it influences and is influenced by local weather, the presence and evolution of meanders and eddies, and the flow speeds associated with each of these features. Sources of information detailing these features their availability afloat and ashore and utility in optimum routing efforts will be discussed and used as a basis for in-class hands-on exercises. Selected read-ahead materials will be provided to all students.
