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What is the connection between the Gulf Stream and the North Atlantic Current?

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Map of the North Atlantic Ocean showing major ocean currents, with warm currents like the Gulf Stream and North Atlantic Drift highlighted in pink and cold currents in blue. Arrows indicate current directions and relative speeds, connecting the eastern coasts of North America, the western coasts of Europe and Africa, and the Arctic region. — Gulf Stream Major warm and cold currents of the North Atlantic Ocean.

The North Atlantic Current serves as the northeastward extension of the Gulf Stream.1

The connection between these two systems is defined by the following transition:

Flow and Evolution: The Gulf Stream originates in the Gulf of Mexico and flows as a concentrated, swift current along the North American coast. As it reaches the area south of the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, the Gulf Stream begins to lose its identity as a single, well-defined current.12
Transition: At this stage, the flow branches out. While some water loops back into the subtropical gyre, the remaining portion continues eastward and northeastward, gradually emerging as the North Atlantic Current.123
Characteristics: Compared to the intense, concentrated flow of the Gulf Stream—which can reach speeds of 1 to 6 knots—the North Atlantic Current is broader and slower, typically moving at about 0.2 knots.1

Ultimately, this transition allows warm, saline water to continue toward the European coast, where it plays a vital role in maintaining a mild climate.12