BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

Shipping lanes are like traffic lanes for boats and are most often used by large commercial vessels. These large ships are often not able to see smaller boats, and for this reason it’s important for pleasure craft operators to operate with extreme caution in these areas.

Boat operators should always stay in the appropriate lane, and avoid crossing lanes whenever possible. Additionally, you should never anchor your boat in or near a shipping lane.

To make your smaller boat more visible in these high traffic areas, pleasure craft operators should try to boat in groups. This will make it easier for larger vessels to spot smaller boats on the water.

Remember: Smaller boats, that are less than 20 m in length, are required to give-way to larger less maneuverable boats. This includes boats which are towing a barge, or those with nets and trawls, and applies on all waterways including narrow channels, and shipping lanes.

 Remember to check for the latest Homeland Security Requirements if you’ll be boating in to U.S. waters. Always be sure that you’re carrying all of the required documentation, and ensure it’s available for inspections if required.