As a former captain, I navigated marked channels along the east coast of the United States frequently. Channels are typically bustling with traffic ranging from small crafts to large ocean-going ships. Often, marked channels are found near major coastal cities that are associated with ports. If you’re operating a boat recreationally, it is important to know the details on anchoring in an unmarked channel vs a marked channel. 

Determining A Marked Channel From An Unmarked Channel

Without question, there is a difference between a marked channel on a chart and an unmarked channel. 

With that said, you will need to rely on a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration electronic or paper chart. Here is how to determine a marked channel from an unmarked channel. 

Marked Channel

It should be noted that a marked channel is denoted by dashed lines on two sides of a waterway. They typically are close together in the areas with the most depth to prevent ships from running aground. 

A marked channel is most often found in port cities as it leads the ships safely from the ocean to the port and vice versa. 

Unmarked Channels 

Channels are common as they help prevent boats from running aground or heading off course. However, not all channels are governed by international law. 

The vast majority of channels are not considered marked. Remember you need to review a chart to determine a marked channel from an unmarked channel. 

Unmarked channels do not guide ships but instead recreational boaters. For this reason, they are not denoted on the chart. However, I recommend following the channel markers correctly to remain safe. 

Anchoring In An Unmarked Channel

Undoubtedly, you’re going to come across unmarked channels on a routine basis. Unmarked channels are common around marinas and boat ramps. The purpose of the channel is to guide you back in safely. 

An unmarked channel is often a busy place, especially during the peak boating season. Additionally, speed is not regulated in all channels. For this reason, boaters will have the option to run full throttle the majority of the time. 

Restrictions are not in place prohibiting you from anchoring in an unmarked channel, but remember to be wise. Here is what to take into consideration. 

Expect To Get Rocked By Boat Wakes

All too often, I have watched boaters who are anchored alongside unmarked channels get mad. They get mad because their vessel gets tossed wildly by boat wakes. 

Know that your boat will get tossed by wakes when anchored along a channel. You cannot request that passing boats slow their speeds and control their wakes. You’re anchoring at your own risk. 

Don’t Block The Channel

It is baffling to watch boaters anchor out in the middle of an unmarked channel. The last thing you want to do is impede traffic. Additionally, you’re putting yourself and others at risk of a collision because it will alter the flow of traffic. 

For this reason, if you’re anchoring in a channel, do so on the sides of the channel and not in the center. 

Anchoring In A marked Channel

It is essential to know that International Law states that you are not legally allowed to anchor in a marked channel. 

Importantly, marked channels are widely used by container ships, cruise ships, tanker ships, and more. Understand that any of these cannot stop quickly and often require assistance from tugs. The tugs guide the ships while turning and docking. 

With that said, you cannot anchor in a channel because it becomes a matter of safety. You cannot expect a ship in a narrow marked channel to bob and weave through anchored pleasure crafts. 

If you find it necessary to anchor near a shipping channel, always remain outside of the navigational markers. However, you can expect to be seriously rocked by massive ship wakes. The situation can turn deadly as a large enough wake will swamp a boat or cause it to capsize. 

I recommend anchoring a significant distance from marked channels. Also, when passing through a marked channel, do so in an angle that will get you across as quickly as possible. 

Know The Difference Between A Marked Channel Vs Unmarked Channel

Remember to review a paper or electronic chart if you’re a new boat owner or if you’re visiting a different location. Without a doubt, you will want to be able to identify marked channels versus unmarked channels. Anchoring in any channel is best avoided to remain safe. Lastly, stay clear of all shipping traffic in marked channels. Ships are limited in their ability to maneuver.