Nautical Term: Horse latitudes

Definition of Horse latitudes

The horse latitudes refer to the specific latitude ranges, situated on the outer edges of the prevailing trade winds. In these regions, the winds become significantly lighter and more variable than the consistent trades further equatorward.

Example: During the voyage of the famous sailing ship, the ‘Santa Maria’, the captain found himself in the horse latitudes. The winds were light and unpredictable, making progress difficult for the Santa Maria and her crew.

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