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Summary

Short Citation
Office of Coast Survey, 2025: Shipping Fairways, Lanes, and Zones for US waters, https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/inport/item/39986.
Full Citation Examples

Abstract

Various shipping zones delineate activities and regulations for marine vessel traffic. Traffic lanes define specific traffic flow, while traffic separation zones assist opposing streams of marine traffic. Precautionary areas represent areas where ships must navigate with caution, and shipping safety fairways designate where artificial structures are prohibited. Recommended Routes are predetermined routes for shipping adopted for reasons of safety. Along certain zones of the East Coast of the United States, ships are required to reduce speeds to 10 knots or less over ground during seasonal periods within designated endangered species areas, such as the North Atlantic Right Whales. Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas need special protection because of their vulnerability to damage by international maritime activities. Areas to be avoided are within defined limits where navigation is particularly hazardous or it is exceptionally important to avoid casualties and should be avoided by all ships or certain classes of ships.

Distribution Information

Access Constraints:

None

Use Constraints:

These data are intended for coastal and ocean use planning. Not for navigation.

Controlled Theme Keywords

boundaries, environment, oceans, transportation

Child Items

Type Title
Entity Shipping Fairways Lanes and Zones

Contact Information

Point of Contact
Patrick Keown
patrick.keown@noaa.gov
240-533-0031

Metadata Contact
Patrick Keown
patrick.keown@noaa.gov
240-533-0031

Extents

Geographic Area 1

-179.46° W, 174.6° E, 60.98° N, 9.31° S

Time Frame 1
2001-07-11 - Present