The high sea is a term used to describe the open ocean beyond the coastlines and continental shelves. Synonyms for the high sea include open sea, deep sea, offshore waters, and blue water. The open sea refers to the unobstructed ocean surface for miles around. The deep sea refers to the water column underneath the surface, which is typically characterized by low light, high pressure, and cold temperatures. Offshore waters are those that lie beyond the reach of the shoreline, while blue water refers to the deep, darkly colored ocean water that contrasts with the lighter water closer to land. All of these terms evoke the vast and mysterious nature of the high sea.