What does "upstream" refer to in boating?

"Upstream" refers to the direction against the current in a body of water. When a boater is moving upstream, they are navigating against the flow of the water, which typically requires more effort and power, whether the vessel is powered by oars, a motor, or sail. This movement can be crucial for various reasons, including reaching specific destinations located further inland, accessing areas that may not be reachable by simply allowing the current to carry the vessel downstream, and ensuring safety when encountering obstacles or low water levels.

Understanding the concept of upstream is fundamental in boating safety and navigation, as it influences how a boater manages their speed and route. The other options refer to different aspects of current behavior that do not accurately define the term "upstream."