Two-way route means a directional route within defined limits inside which two-way traffic is established, and which is intended to improve safety in waters where navigation is difficult.
Two-way traffic means that traffic flow is permitted in opposing directions, but a vessel may not meet, cross, nor overtake any other vessel in such a manner that it would be abreast of more than one other vessel within the defined limits of a waterway.
Note: The Vessel Traffic Service closes or opens these channels as ice conditions require after giving due consideration to the protection of the marine environment, waterway improvements, aids to navigation, the need for cross channel traffic (e.g., ferries), the availability of icebreakers, and the safety of the island residents who, in the course of their daily business, must use naturally formed ice bridges for transportation to and from the mainland. Under normal seasonal conditions, only one closing each winter and one opening each spring are anticipated. Prior to closing or opening these channels, interested parties including both shipping entities and island residents, will be given at least 72 hours notice by the Coast Guard.
Table 162.117(g)-St. Marys River Speed Rules
Maximum speed limit between | Mph | Kts |
De Tour Reef Light and Sweets Point Light | 14 | 12.2 |
Round Island Light and Point Aux Frenes Light "21" | 14 | 12.2 |
Munuscong Lake Lighted Buoy "8" and Everens Point | 12 | 10.4 |
Everens Point and Reed Point | 9 | 7.8 |
Reed Point and Lake Nicolet Lighted Buoy "62" | 10 | 8.7 |
Lake Nicolet Lighted Buoy "62" and Lake Nicolet Light "80" | 12 | 10.4 |
Lake Nicolet Light "80" and Winter Point (West Neebish Channel) | 10 | 8.7 |
Lake Nicolet Light "80" and Six Mile Point Range Rear Light | 10 | 8.7 |
Six Mile Point Range Rear Light and lower limit of the St. Marys Falls Canal | ||
Upbound | 8 | 7.0 |
Downbound | 10 | 8.7 |
Upper limit of the St. Marys Falls Canal and Point Aux Pins Main Light | 12 | 10.4 |
Note: A vessel must not navigate any dredged channel at a speed of less than 5 statute miles per hour (4.3 knots).
33 C.F.R. §162.117