Tidal Stream
The horizontal movement of water associated with the astronomical tide.
A tidal stream is described by its set, the direction towards which it flows, and its rate, usually in knots. It may reverse between flood and ebb, rotate continuously or form eddies, and its timing need not coincide with local high and low water.
Predicted streams vary with springs, neaps, location and depth and can be modified by wind, river discharge and seabed or coastline shape. The term is often used interchangeably with tidal current, but it should be distinguished from the vertical rise and fall called tide.
