kenbert, there are two different terms. Surge is back and forth movement of water, produced by the same phenomenon that creates waves. It's generally most noticeable when diving fairly close to a shoreline. It will not always move in the same direction, because it will basically move somewhat perpendicular to the shore (water movement gets bent around by points and coves, so it won't always be perpendicular, but it doesn't always move in the same direction).
Current, on the other hand, is a one-way movement of water. Current can be used for orientation, although one must be aware that some currents are inconstant or may even switch directions during a dive, depending on what is generating the current in question. In Puget Sound, we have tidal currents, and they often flow, slack and reverse (but not always, and not everywhere, which is why knowledge of a specific site is important).