Atlantic Azores Current

The waters north of the Azores lie amid the currents of the North Atlantic. Branches of the Gulf Stream approach the archipelago from the northwest, bringing meanders and eddies; the eastward-flowing Azores Current lies farther south. Ships returning from overseas used the prevailing westerlies near the islands, whose harbors offered provisions and shelter after the ocean crossing. Their proximity to the routes also made the islands a place to watch for valuable fleets.