"open water" vs "high seas"

Question

"open water" vs "high seas"

Both 'high seas' and 'open water' are correct phrases used to refer to areas of the ocean that are not under the jurisdiction of any particular country. They are comparable in meaning and can be used interchangeably in most contexts.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

It is used to describe any expanse of water that is not enclosed or restricted. It can refer to the high seas as well as other bodies of water.

Examples:

The boat was in open water for days.
Swimmers should be cautious in open water.
The yacht race took place in open water.
The research vessel explored the open water.
The marine biologist studied the creatures in open water.

Alternatives:

unrestricted waters
free waters
unclaimed waters
unfettered waters
unrestricted expanse

It is used to describe the part of the ocean that is not under the jurisdiction of any single country and is open to all nations. It is often used in legal and maritime contexts.

Examples:

The ship was sailing on the high seas.
Fishing regulations differ between territorial waters and the high seas.
Piracy is a concern on the high seas.
The vessel encountered rough weather on the high seas.
The treaty governs activities on the high seas.

Alternatives:

international waters
open ocean
offshore
deep sea
oceanic expanse

Answer 1

open water

The term 'open water' is also used to refer to areas of the ocean that are not under the jurisdiction of any particular country. It is a more general term compared to 'high seas'.

Answer 2

high seas

The term 'high seas' refers to the open ocean beyond the territorial waters of any country. It is a commonly used legal term.

"open water" vs "high seas"

open water

high seas

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