North Eastern Atlantic

North of the Galician and Asturian coasts, the waters of the Bay of Biscay open westward into the Atlantic. The continental shelf is narrow along northern Spain, giving way quickly to deeper water offshore. Cape Ortegal and the inlets of the Rías Altas lie to the south, their sheltered harbours contrasting with the exposed sea beyond. Winds and swell crossing the bay made this a demanding passage for sailing vessels.