Am in the gulfstream yet?

[armandolio]

How do you know when you're in the gulfstream?

Curioisity for now, will cross it eventually......

[FSMike]

1) An accurate position vis-a-vis the position of the gulf stream

2) A change in the temperature of the water

3) A change in the color of the water

4) A change in the wave action

[Faster]

....5) Sudden change in SOG and CMG

[tdw]

Originally Posted by FSMike

1) An accurate position vis-a-vis the position of the gulf stream

2) A change in the temperature of the water

3) A change in the color of the water

4) A change in the wave action

Is the position of the Gulf Stream stable ?

We have a thing down here called the East Australian Current but that sucker is positively nomadic.

[SVAuspicious]

Originally Posted by FSMike

2) A change in the temperature of the water

This has been the most certain for me, particularly crossing further North.

The Gulf Stream moves around a bit over periods of some months.

[killarney_sailor]

If you have a chart plotter you will know.

[armandolio]

I hear the NOAA forecast provide the estimated location of the GS as in X NM east of certain locations. Using that info it one can plot it, and then as implied by FSMIKE use your GPS. However other than that, it seems like pure observation.

In South Florida the water color changes once you leave the 20-40' depths and enter the 500' depths 3 NMs out. Yet, I assume that is still not the GS. Am I correct?

[davidpm]

Tropical fish

"The tiny state of Rhode Island boasts 40 miles (64 km) of coastline, with a combination of shore and boat dive sites, most from the Newport area. The underwater contour off Rhode Island includes cliffs and tunnels. During late summer the Gulf Stream brings juvenile tropical fishes to the area. They take refuge in warm, shallow coves and areas that provide protection from predators. In fall they perish as the water becomes too cool for their survival."

From Maine to the Florida Keys

[RichH]

As others have posted, when the water temp. changes and the gps/charplotter shows increased drift.

Another way is to simply visualize the stunning deep blue clear water of the Gulf Stream.

[zz4gta]

Squall line as far as you can see. At least that's what I saw at night.