[Title 33 CFR 161]
[Code of Federal Regulations (annual edition) - July 1, 2005 Edition]
[Title 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS]
[Chapter I - COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED)]
[Subchapter P - PORTS AND WATERWAYS SAFETY]
[Part 161 - VESSEL TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT]
[From the U.S. Government Printing Office]
33NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS22005-07-012005-07-01falseVESSEL TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT161PART 161NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERSCOAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED)PORTS AND WATERWAYS SAFETY
PART 161_VESSEL TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT--Table of Contents
Subpart A_Vessel Traffic Services
General Rules
Sec.
161.1 Purpose and Intent.
161.2 Definitions.
161.3 Applicability.
161.4 Requirement to carry the rules.
161.5 Deviations from the rules.
Services, VTS Measures, and Operating Requirements
161.10 Services.
161.11 VTS measures.
161.12 Vessel operating requirements.
161.13 VTS Special Area operating requirements.
Subpart B_Vessel Movement Reporting System
161.15 Purpose and intent.
161.16 Applicability.
161.17 Definitions.
161.18 Reporting requirements.
161.19 Sailing Plan (SP).
161.20 Position Report (PR).
161.21 Automated reporting.
161.22 Final Report (FR).
161.23 Reporting exemptions.
Subpart C_Vessel Traffic Service and Vessel Movement Reporting System
Areas and Reporting Points
161.25 Vessel Traffic Service New York Area.
161.30 Vessel Traffic Service Louisville.
161.35 Vessel Traffic Service Houston/Galveston.
161.40 Vessel Traffic Service Berwick Bay.
161.45 Vessel Traffic Service St. Marys River.
161.50 Vessel Traffic Service San Francisco.
161.55 Vessel Traffic Service Puget Sound and the Cooperative Vessel
Traffic Service for the Juan de Fuca Region.
161.60 Vessel Traffic Service Prince William Sound.
Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1223, 1231; 46 U.S.C. 70114, 70117; Pub. L.
107-295, 116 Stat. 2064; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No.
0170.1.
Source: CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, unless otherwise
noted.
Subpart A_Vessel Traffic Services
General Rules
Sec. 161.1 Purpose and Intent.
(a) The purpose of this part is to promulgate regulations
implementing and enforcing certain sections of the Ports and Waterways
Safety Act (PWSA) setting up a national system of Vessel Traffic
Services that will enhance navigation, vessel safety, and marine
environmental protection, and promote safe vessel movement by reducing
the potential for collisions, rammings, and groundings, and the loss of
lives and property associated with these incidents within VTS areas
established hereunder.
(b) Vessel Traffic Services provide the mariner with information
related to the safe navigation of a waterway. This information, coupled
with the mariner's compliance with the provisions set forth in this
part, enhances
[[Page 578]]
the safe routing of vessels through congested waterways or waterways of
particular hazard. Under certain circumstances, a VTS may issue
directions to control the movement of vessels in order to minimize the
risk of collision between vessels, or damage to property or the
environment.
(c) The owner, operator, charterer, master, or person directing the
movement of a vessel remains at all times responsible for the manner in
which the vessel is operated and maneuvered, and is responsible for the
safe navigation of the vessel under all circumstances. Compliance with
these rules or with a direction of the VTS is at all times contingent
upon the exigencies of safe navigation.
(d) Nothing in this part is intended to relieve any vessel, owner,
operator, charterer, master, or person directing the movement of a
vessel from the consequences of any neglect to comply with this part or
any other applicable law or regulation (e.g., the International
Regulations for Prevention of Collisions at Sea, 1972 (72 COLREGS) or
the Inland Navigation Rules) or of the neglect of any precaution which
may be required by the ordinary practice of seamen, or by the special
circumstances of the case.
Sec. 161.2 Definitions.
For the purposes of this part:
Cooperative Vessel Traffic Services (CVTS) means the system of
vessel traffic management established and jointly operated by the United
States and Canada within adjoining waters. In addition, CVTS facilitates
traffic movement and anchorages, avoids jurisdictional disputes, and
renders assistance in emergencies in adjoining United States and
Canadian waters.
Hazardous Vessel Operating Condition means any condition related to
a vessel's ability to safely navigate or maneuver, and includes, but is
not limited to:
(1) The absence or malfunction of vessel operating equipment, such
as propulsion machinery, steering gear, radar system, gyrocompass, depth
sounding device, automatic radar plotting aid (ARPA), radiotelephone,
Automatic Identification System equipment, navigational lighting, sound
signaling devices or similar equipment.
(2) Any condition on board the vessel likely to impair navigation,
such as lack of current nautical charts and publications, personnel
shortage, or similar condition.
(3) Vessel characteristics that affect or restrict maneuverability,
such as cargo arrangement, trim, loaded condition, underkeel clearance,
speed, or similar characteristics.
Navigable waters means all navigable waters of the United States
including the territorial sea of the United States, extending to 12
nautical miles from United States baselines, as described in
Presidential Proclamation No. 5928 of December 27, 1988.
Precautionary Area means a routing measure comprising an area within
defined limits where vessels must navigate with particular caution and
within which the direction of traffic may be recommended.
Towing Vessel means any commercial vessel engaged in towing another
vessel astern, alongside, or by pushing ahead.
Vessel Movement Center (VMC) means the shore-based facility that
operates the vessel tracking system for a Vessel Movement Reporting
System (VMRS) area or sector within such an area. The VMC does not
necessarily have the capability or qualified personnel to interact with
marine traffic, nor does it necessarily respond to traffic situations
developing in the area, as does a Vessel Traffic Service (VTS).
Vessel Movement Reporting System (VMRS) means a mandatory reporting
system used to monitor and track vessel movements. This is accomplished
by a vessel providing information under established procedures as set
forth in this part in the areas defined in Table 161.12(c) (VTS and VMRS
Centers, Call Signs/MMSI, Designated Frequencies, and Monitoring Areas).
Vessel Movement Reporting System (VMRS) User means a vessel, or an
owner, operator, charterer, Master, or person directing the movement of
a vessel that is required to participate in a VMRS.
Vessel Traffic Center (VTC) means the shore-based facility that
operates the vessel traffic service for the Vessel
[[Page 579]]
Traffic Service area or sector within such an area.
Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) means a service implemented by the
United States Coast Guard designed to improve the safety and efficiency
of vessel traffic and to protect the environment. The VTS has the
capability to interact with marine traffic and respond to traffic
situations developing in the VTS area.
Vessel Traffic Service Area or VTS Area means the geographical area
encompassing a specific VTS area of service. This area of service may be
subdivided into sectors for the purpose of allocating responsibility to
individual Vessel Traffic Centers or to identify different operating
requirements.
Note: Although regulatory jurisdiction is limited to the navigable
waters of the United States, certain vessels will be encouraged or may
be required, as a condition of port entry, to report beyond this area to
facilitate traffic management within the VTS area.
VTS Special Area means a waterway within a VTS area in which special
operating requirements apply.
VTS User means a vessel, or an owner, operator, charterer, master,
or person directing the movement of a vessel, that is:
(a) Subject to the Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act; or
(b) Required to participate in a VMRS within a VTS area (VMRS User).
VTS User's Manual means the manual established and distributed by
the VTS to provide the mariner with a description of the services
offered and rules in force for that VTS. Additionally, the manual may
include chartlets showing the area and sector boundaries, general
navigational information about the area, and procedures, radio
frequencies, reporting provisions and other information which may assist
the mariner while in the VTS area.
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by CGE 97-023, 62 FR
33364, June 19, 1997; USCG-2003-14757, 68 FR 39364, July 1, 2003]
Sec. 161.3 Applicability.
The provisions of this subpart shall apply to each VTS User and may
also apply to any vessel while underway or at anchor on the navigable
waters of the United States within a VTS area, to the extent the VTS
considers necessary.
Sec. 161.4 Requirement to carry the rules.
Each VTS User shall carry on board and maintain for ready reference
a copy of these rules.
Note: These rules are contained in the applicable U.S. Coast Pilot,
the VTS User's Manual which may be obtained by contacting the
appropriate VTS, and periodically published in the Local Notice to
Mariners. The VTS User's Manual and the World VTS Guide, an
International Maritime Organization (IMO) recognized publication,
contain additional information which may assist the prudent mariner
while in the appropriate VTS area.
Sec. 161.5 Deviations from the rules.
(a) Requests to deviate from any provision in this part, either for
an extended period of time or if anticipated before the start of a
transit, must be submitted in writing to the appropriate District
Commander. Upon receipt of the written request, the District Commander
may authorize a deviation if it is determined that such a deviation
provides a level of safety equivalent to that provided by the required
measure or is a maneuver considered necessary for safe navigation under
the circumstances. An application for an authorized deviation must state
the need and fully describe the proposed alternative to the required
measure.
(b) Requests to deviate from any provision in this part due to
circumstances that develop during a transit or immediately preceeding a
transit, may be made verbally to the appropriate VTS Director. Requests
to deviate shall be made as far in advance as practicable. Upon receipt
of the request, the VTS Director may authorize a deviation if it is
determined that, based on vessel handling characteristics, traffic
density, radar contacts, environmental conditions and other relevant
information, such a deviation provides a level of safety equivalent to
that provided by the required measure or is a maneuver considered
necessary for safe navigation under the circumstances.
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by USCG-2005-21531,
70 FR 36350, June 23, 2005]
[[Page 580]]
Services, VTS Measures, and Operating Requirements
Sec. 161.10 Services.
To enhance navigation and vessel safety, and to protect the marine
environment, a VTS may issue advisories, or respond to vessel requests
for information, on reported conditions within the VTS area, such as:
(a) Hazardous conditions or circumstances;
(b) Vessel congestion;
(c) Traffic density;
(d) Environmental conditions;
(e) Aids to navigation status;
(f) Anticipated vessel encounters;
(g) Another vessel's name, type, position, hazardous vessel
operating conditions, if applicable, and intended navigation movements,
as reported;
(h) Temporary measures in effect;
(i) A description of local harbor operations and conditions, such as
ferry routes, dredging, and so forth;
(j) Anchorage availability; or
(k) Other information or special circumstances.
Sec. 161.11 VTS measures.
(a) A VTS may issue measures or directions to enhance navigation and
vessel safety and to protect the marine environment, such as, but not
limited to:
(1) Designating temporary reporting points and procedures;
(2) Imposing vessel operating requirements; or
(3) Establishing vessel traffic routing schemes.
(b) During conditions of vessel congestion, restricted visibility,
adverse weather, or other hazardous circumstances, a VTS may control,
supervise, or otherwise manage traffic, by specifying times of entry,
movement, or departure to, from, or within a VTS area.
Sec. 161.12 Vessel operating requirements.
(a) Subject to the exigencies of safe navigation, a VTS User shall
comply with all measures established or directions issued by a VTS.
(b) If, in a specific circumstance, a VTS User is unable to safely
comply with a measure or direction issued by the VTS, the VTS User may
deviate only to the extent necessary to avoid endangering persons,
property or the environment. The deviation shall be reported to the VTS
as soon as is practicable.
(c) When not exchanging voice communications, a VTS User must
maintain a listening watch as required by Sec. 26.04(e) of this chapter
on the VTS frequency designated in Table 161.12(c) (VTS and VMRS
Centers, Call Signs/MMSI, Designated Frequencies, and Monitoring Areas).
In addition, the VTS User must respond promptly when hailed and
communicate in the English language.
Note to Sec. 161.12(c):
As stated in 47 CFR 80.148(b), a very high frequency watch on
Channel 16 (156.800 MHz) is not required on vessels subject to the
Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act and participating in a Vessel
Traffic Service (VTS) system when the watch is maintained on both the
vessel bridge-to-bridge frequency and a designated VTS frequency.
Table 161.12(c).--VTS and VMRS Centers, Call Signs/MMSI, Designated Frequencies, and Monitoring Areas
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Designated frequency (Channel
Center MMSI 1 Call Sign designation)--purpose 2 Monitoring area 3 4
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Berwick Bay 003669950--
Berwick Traffic.......................... 156.550 MHz (Ch. 11).............. The waters south of
29[deg]45[min] N., west of
91[deg]10[min] W., north of
29[deg]37[min] N., and east of
91[deg]18[min] W.
Houston-Galveston--003669954............. .................................. The navigable waters north of
29[deg] N., west of
94[deg]20[min] W., south of
29[deg]49[min] N., and east of
95[deg]20[min] W.
Houston Traffic.......................... 156.550 MHz (Ch. 11).............. The navigable waters north of a
156.250 Mhz (Ch. 5A).............. line extending due west from the
--For Sailing Plans only.......... southern most end of Exxon Dock
1 (20[deg]43.37[min]
N., 95[deg]01.27[min] W.).
Houston Traffic.......................... 156.600 MHz (Ch. 12).............. The navigable waters south of a
156.250 Mhz (Ch. 5A).............. line extending due west from the
--For Sailing Plans only.......... southern most end of Exxon Dock
1 (29[deg]43.37[min]
N., 95[deg]01.27[min] W.)
[[Page 581]]
Los Angeles/Long Beach: MMSI/To be
determined
San Pedro Traffic........................ 156.700 MHz (Ch.14)............... Vessel Movement Reporting System
Area: The navigable waters
within a 25 nautical mile radius
of Point Fermin Light
(33[deg]42.3[min] N.,
118[deg]17.6[min] W.).
Louisville: Not applicable
Louisville Traffic....................... 156.650 MHz (Ch. 13) The waters of the Ohio River
between McAlpine Locks (Mile
606) and Twelve Mile Island
(Mile 593), only when the
McAlpine upper pool gauge is at
approximately 13.0 feet or
above.
Lower Mississippi River 5--0036699952
New Orleans Traffic...................... 156.700 MHz (Ch.14)............... The navigable waters of the Lower
Mississippi River below
30[deg]38.7[min] N.,
91[deg]17.5[min] W. (Port Hudson
Light at 255 miles Above Head of
Passes (AHP)), the Southwest
Pass, and, within a 12 nautical
miles radius around
28[deg]54.3[min] N.,
89[deg]25.7[min] W. (Southwest
Pass Entrance Light at 19.9
miles Below Head of Passes).
New Orleans Traffic...................... 156.600 MHz (Ch.12)............... New Orleans Sector. The navigable
waters of the Lower Mississippi
River bounded on the north by a
line drawn perpendicularly at
29[deg]56.4[min] N.,
90[deg]08.36[min] W. and on the
south by a line drawn
perpendicularly at
29[deg]56.24[min] N.,
89[deg]59.86[min] W. (88 and 106
miles AHP).
New York--003669951
New York Traffic......................... 156.550 MHz (Ch. 11).............. The area consists of the
--For Sailing Plans only.......... navigable waters of the Lower
156.600 MHz (Ch. 12).............. New York Bay bounded on the east
--For vessels at anchor........... by a line drawn from Norton
Point to Breezy Point; on the
south by a line connecting the
entrance buoys at the Ambrose
Channel, Swash Channel, and
Sandy Hook Channel to Sandy Hook
Point; and on the southeast
including the waters of Sandy
Hook Bay south to a line drawn
at latitude 40[deg] 25[min] N;
then west in the Raritan Bay to
the Raritan River Railroad
Bridge, then north into waters
of the Arthur Kill and Newark
Bay to the Lehigh Valley Draw
Bridge at latitude 40[deg]
41.9N; and then east including
the waters of the Kill Van Kull
and the Upper New York Bay north
to a line drawn east-west from
the Holland Tunnel ventilator
shaft at latitude 40[deg]
43.7[min] N, longitude 74[deg]
01.6[min] W, in the Hudson
River; and then continuing east
including the waters of the East
River to the Throgs Neck Bridge,
excluding the Harlem River.
New York Traffic......................... 156.700 MHz (Ch. 14).............. The navigable waters of the Lower
New York Bay west of a line
drawn from Norton Point to
Breezy Point; and north of a
line connecting the entrance
buoys of Ambrose Channel, Swash
Channel, and Sandy Hook Channel,
to Sandy Hook Point; on the
southeast including the waters
of the Sandy Hook Bay south to a
line drawn at latitude 40[deg]
25[min] N; then west into the
waters of Raritan Bay East Reach
to a line drawn from Great Kills
Light south through Raritan Bay
East Reach LGB 14 to
Comfort PT, NJ; then north
including the waters of the
Upper New York Bay south of
40[deg] 42.40[min] N (Brooklyn
Bridge) and 40[deg] 43.70[min] N
(Holland Tunnel Ventilator
Shaft); west through the KVK
into the Arthur Kill north of
40[deg] 38.25[min] N (Arthur
Kill Railroad Bridge); then
north into the waters of the
Newark Bay, south of 40[deg]
41.95[min] N (Lehigh Valley Draw
Bridge).
New York Traffic......................... 156.600 MHz (Ch. 12).............. The navigable waters of the
Raritan Bay south to a line
drawn at latitude 40[deg]
26[min] N; then west of a line
drawn from Great Kills Light
south through the Raritan Bay
East Reach LGB 14 to
Point Comfort, NJ; then west to
the Raritan River Railroad
Bridge; and north including the
waters of the Arthur Kill to
40[deg] 28.25[min] N (Arthur
Kill Railroad Bridge); including
the waters of the East River
north of 40[deg] 42.40[min] N
(Brooklyn Bridge) to the Throgs
Neck Bridge, excluding the
Harlem River.
Port Arthur 5--003669955
Sabine Traffic........................... To be determined.................. The navigable waters south of
30[deg]10[min] N., east of
94[deg]20[min] W., west of
93[deg]22[min] W, and, north of
29[deg] 10[min] N.
[[Page 582]]
Prince William Sound--003669958
Valdez Traffic........................... 156.650 MHz (Ch. 13).............. The navigable waters south of
61[deg]05[min] N., east of
147[deg]20[min] W., north of
60[deg] N., and west of
146[deg]30[min] W.; and, all
navigable waters in Port Valdez.
Puget Sound 6
Seattle Traffic--003669957............... 156.700 MHz (Ch. 14).............. The waters of Puget Sound, Hood
Canal and adjacent waters south
of a line connecting Marrowstone
Point and Lagoon Point in
Admiralty Inlet and south of a
line drawn due east from the
southernmost tip of Possession
Point on Whidbey Island to the
shoreline.
Seattle Traffic--003669957............... 156.250 MHz (Ch. 5A).............. The waters of the Strait of Juan
de Fuca east of 124[deg]40[min]
W. excluding the waters in the
central portion of the Strait of
Juan de Fuca north and east of
Race Rocks; the navigable waters
of the Strait of Georgia east of
122[deg]52[min] W.; the San Juan
Island Archipelago, Rosario
Strait, Bellingham Bay;
Admiralty Inlet north of a line
connecting Marrowstone Point and
Lagoon Point and all waters east
of Whidbey Island North of a
line drawn due east from the
southernmost tip of Possession
Point on Whidbey Island to the
shoreline.
Tofino Traffic--003160012................ 156.725 MHz (Ch. 74).............. The waters west of
124[deg]40[min] W. within 50
nautical miles of the coast of
Vancouver Island including the
waters north of 48[deg] N., and
east of 127[deg] W.
Victoria Traffi--003160010............... 156.550 MHz (Ch. 11).............. The waters of the Strait of
Georgia west of 122[deg]52[min]
W., the navigable waters of the
central Strait of Juan de Fuca
north and east of Race Rocks,
including the Gulf Island
Archipelago, Boundary Pass and
Haro Strait.
San Francisco--003669956
San Francisco Traffic.................... 156.700 MHz (Ch. 14).............. The navigable waters of the San
Francisco Offshore Precautionary
Area, the navigable waters
shoreward of the San Francisco
Offshore Precautionary Area east
of 122[deg]42.0[min] W. and
north of 37[deg]40.0[min] N.
extending eastward through the
Golden Gate, and the navigable
waters of San Francisco Bay and
as far east as the port of
Stockton on the San Joaquin
River, as far north as the port
of Sacramento on the Sacramento
River.
San Francisco Traffic.................... 156.600 MHz (Ch. 12).............. The navigable waters within a 38
nautical mile radius of Mount
Tamalpais (37[deg]55.8[min] N.,
122[deg]34.6[min] W.) west of
122[deg]42.0[min] W. and south
of 37[deg]40.0[min] N and
excluding the San Francisco
Offshore Precautionary Area.
St. Marys River--003669953
Soo Traffic.............................. 156.600 MHz (Ch. 12).............. The waters of the St. Marys River
between 45[deg]57[min] N. (De
Tour Reef Light) and
46[deg]38.7[min] N. (lle
Parisienne Light), except the
St. Marys Falls Canal and those
navigable waters east of a line
from 46[deg]04.16[min] N. and
46[deg]01.57[min] N. (La Pointe
to Sims Point in Potagannissing
Bay and Worsley Bay).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
\1\ Maritime Mobile Service Identifier (MMSI) is a unique nine-digit number assigned that identifies ship
stations, ship earth stations, coast stations, coast earth stations, and group calls for use by a digital
selective calling (DSC) radio, an INMARSAT ship earth station or AIS. AIS requirements are set forth in Sec.
Sec. 161.21 and 164.46 of this subchapter. The requirements set forth in Sec. Sec. 161.21 and 164.46 of
this subchapter apply in those areas denoted with a MMSI number.
\2\ In the event of a communication failure, difficulties or other safety factors, the Center may direct or
permit a user to monitor and report on any other designated monitoring frequency or the bridge-to-bridge
navigational frequency, 156.650 MHz (Channel 13) or 156.375 MHz (Ch. 67), to the extent that doing so provides
a level of safety beyond that provided by other means. The bridge-to-bridge navigational frequency, 156.650
MHz (Ch. 13), is used in certain monitoring areas where the level of reporting does not warrant a designated
frequency.
\3\ All geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) are expressed in North American Datum of 1983 (NAD 83).
\4\ Some monitoring areas extend beyond navigable waters. Although not required, users are strongly encouraged
to maintain a listening watch on the designated monitoring frequency in these areas. Otherwise, they are
required to maintain watch as stated in 47 CFR 80.148.
\5\ Until rules regarding VTS Lower Mississippi River and VTS Port Arthur are published, vessels are exempted of
all VTS and VMRS requirements set forth in 33 CFR part 161, except those set forth in Sec. Sec. 161.21 and
164.46 of this subchapter.
\6\ A Cooperative Vessel Traffic Service was established by the United States and Canada within adjoining
waters. The appropriate Center administers the rules issued by both nations; however, enforces only its own
set of rules within its jurisdiction. Note, the bridge-to-bridge navigational frequency, 156.650 MHz (Ch. 13),
is not so designated in Canadian waters, therefore users are encouraged and permitted to make passing
arrangements on the designated monitoring frequencies.
[[Page 583]]
(d) As soon as is practicable, a VTS User shall notify the VTS of
any of the following:
(1) A marine casualty as defined in 46 CFR 4.05-1;
(2) Involvement in the ramming of a fixed or floating object;
(3) A pollution incident as defined in Sec. 151.15 of this chapter;
(4) A defect or discrepancy in an aid to navigation;
(5) A hazardous condition as defined in Sec. 160.203 of this
chapter;
(6) Improper operation of vessel equipment required by Part 164 of
this chapter;
(7) A situation involving hazardous materials for which a report is
required by 49 CFR 176.48; and
(8) A hazardous vessel operating condition as defined in Sec.
161.2.
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by CGD 95-033, 60 FR
28329, May 31, 1995; CGD 92-052, 61 FR 45326, Aug. 29, 1996; USCG-1999-
6141, 64 FR 69636, Dec. 14, 1999; USCG-2003-14757, 68 FR 39364, July 1,
2003; USCG-2003-14757, 68 FR 60569, Oct. 22, 2003; USCG-2004-18057, 69
FR 34926, June 23, 2004]
Sec. 161.13 VTS Special Area operating requirements.
The following operating requirements apply within a VTS Special
Area:
(a) A VTS User shall, if towing astern, do so with as short a hawser
as safety and good seamanship permits.
(b) A VMRS User shall: (1) Not enter or get underway in the area
without prior approval of the VTS;
(2) Not enter a VTS Special Area if a hazardous vessel operating
condition or circumstance exists;
(3) Not meet, cross, or overtake any other VMRS User in the area
without prior approval of the VTS; and
(4) Before meeting, crossing, or overtaking any other VMRS User in
the area, communicate on the designated vessel bridge-to-bridge
radiotelephone frequency, intended navigation movements, and any other
information necessary in order to make safe passing arrangements. This
requirement does not relieve a vessel of any duty prescribed by the
International Regulations for Prevention of Collisions at Sea, 1972 (72
COLREGS) or the Inland Navigation Rules.
Subpart B_Vessel Movement Reporting System
Sec. 161.15 Purpose and intent.
(a) A Vessel Movement Reporting System (VMRS) is a system used to
monitor and track vessel movements VTS or VMRS area. This is
accomplished by requiring that vessels provide information under
established procedures as set forth in this part, or as directed by the
Center.
(b) To avoid imposing an undue reporting burden or unduly congesting
radiotelephone frequencies, reports shall be limited to information
which is essential to achieve the objectives of the VMRS. These reports
are consolidated into three reports (sailing plan, position, and final).
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by USCG-2003-14757,
68 FR 39366, July 1, 2003]
Sec. 161.16 Applicability.
Unless otherwise stated, the provisions of this subpart apply to the
following vessels and VMRS Users:
(a) Every power-driven vessel of 40 meters (approximately 131 feet)
or more in length, while navigating;
(b) Every towing vessel of 8 meters (approximately 26 feet) or more
in length, while navigating; or
(c) Every vessel certificated to carry 50 or more passengers for
hire, when engaged in trade.
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by USCG-2003-14757,
68 FR 39366, July 1, 2003]
Sec. 161.17 Definitions.
As used in this subpart:
Center means a Vessel Traffic Center or Vessel Movement Center.
Published means available in a widely-distributed and publicly
available medium (e.g., VTS User's Manual, ferry schedule, Notice to
Mariners).
[USCG-2003-14757, 68 FR 39366, July 1, 2003]
Sec. 161.18 Reporting requirements.
(a) A Center may: (1) Direct a vessel to provide any of the
information set forth in Table 161.18(a) (IMO Standard Ship Reporting
System);
[[Page 584]]
Table 161.18(a)--The IMO Standard Ship Reporting System
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A ALPHA............ Ship............. Name, call sign or
ship station
identity, and flag.
B BRAVO............ Dates and time of A 6 digit group giving
event. day of month (first
two digits), hours
and minutes (last
four digits). If
other than UTC state
time zone used.
C CHARLIE.......... Position......... A 4 digit group giving
latitude in degrees
and minutes suffixed
with N (north) or S
(south) and a 5 digit
group giving
longitude in degrees
and minutes suffixed
with E (east) or W
(west); or.
D DELTA............ Position......... True bearing (first 3
digits) and distance
(state distance) in
nautical miles from a
clearly identified
landmark (state
landmark).
E ECHO............. True course...... A 3 digit group.
F FOXTROT.......... Speed in knots A 3 digit group.
and tenths of
knots.
G GOLF............. Port of Departure Name of last port of
call.
H HOTEL............ Date, time and Entry time expressed
point of entry as in (B) and into
system. the entry position
expressed as in (C)
or (D).
I INDIA............ Destination and Name of port and date
expected time of time group expressed
arrival. as in (B).
J JULIET........... Pilot............ State whether a deep
sea or local pilot is
on board.
K KILO............. Date, time and Exit time expressed as
point of exit in (B) and exit
from system. position expressed as
in (C) or (D).
L LIMA............. Route information Intended track.
M MIKE............. Radio............ State in full names of
communications
stations/frequencies
guarded.
N NOVEMBER......... Time of next Date time group
report. expressed as in (B).
O OSCAR............ Maximum present 4 digit group giving
static draught meters and
in meters. centimeters.
P PAPA............. Cargo on board... Cargo and brief
details of any
dangerous cargoes as
well as harmful
substances and gases
that could endanger
persons or the
environment.
Q QUEBEC........... Defects, damage, Brief detail of
deficiencies or defects, damage,
limitations. deficiencies or other
limitations.
R ROMEO............ Description of Brief details of type
pollution or of pollution (oil,
dangerous goods chemicals, etc) or
lost. dangerous goods lost
overboard; position
expressed as in (C)
or (D).
S SIERRA........... Weather Brief details of
conditions. weather and sea
conditions
prevailing.
T TANGO............ Ship's Details of name and
representative particulars of ship's
and/or owner. representative and/or
owner for provision
of information.
U UNIFORM.......... Ship size and Details of length,
type. breadth, tonnage, and
type, etc., as
required.
V VICTOR........... Medical personnel Doctor, physician's
assistant, nurse, no
medic.
W WHISKEY.......... Total number of State number.
persons on board.
X XRAY............. Miscellaneous.... Any other information
as appropriate.
[i.e., a detailed
description of a
planned operation,
which may include:
its duration;
effective area; any
restrictions to
navigation;
notification
procedures for
approaching vessels;
in addition, for a
towing operation:
configuration, length
of the tow, available
horsepower, etc.; for
a dredge or floating
plant: configuration
of pipeline, mooring
configuration, number
of assist vessels,
etc.].
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 585]]
(2) Establish other means of reporting for those vessels unable to
report on the designated frequency; or
(3) Require reports from a vessel in sufficient time to allow
advance vessel traffic planning.
(b) All reports required by this part shall be made as soon as is
practicable on the frequency designated in Table 161.12(c) (VTS and VMRS
Centers, Call Signs/MMSI, Designated Frequencies, and Monitoring Areas).
(c) When not exchanging communications, a VMRS User must maintain a
listening watch as described in Sec. 26.04(e) of this chapter on the
frequency designated in Table 161.12(c) (VTS and VMRS Centers, Call
Signs/MMSI, Designated Frequencies, and Monitoring Areas). In addition,
the VMRS User must respond promptly when hailed and communicate in the
English language.
Note: As stated in 47 CFR 80.148(b), a VHF watch on Channel 16
(156.800 MHz) is not required on vessels subject to the Vessel Bridge-
to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act and participating in a Vessel Traffic
Service (VTS) system when the watch is maintained on both the vessel
bridge-to-bridge frequency and a designated VTS frequency.
(d) A vessel must report:
(1) Any significant deviation from its Sailing Plan, as defined in
Sec. 161.19, or from previously reported information; or
(2) Any intention to deviate from a VTS issued measure or vessel
traffic routing system.
(e) When reports required by this part include time information,
such information shall be given using the local time zone in effect and
the 24-hour military clock system.
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by USCG-2003-14757,
68 FR 39366, July 1, 2003]
Sec. 161.19 Sailing Plan (SP).
Unless otherwise stated, at least 15 minutes before navigating a VTS
area, a vessel must report the:
(a) Vessel name and type;
(b) Position;
(c) Destination and ETA;
(d) Intended route;
(e) Time and point of entry; and
(f) Dangerous cargo on board or in its tow, as defined in Sec.
160.203 of this chapter, and other required information as set out in
Sec. 160.211 and Sec. 160.213 of this chapter, if applicable.
Sec. 161.20 Position Report (PR).
A vessel must report its name and position:
(a) Upon point of entry into a VMRS area;
(b) At designated reporting points as set forth in subpart C; or
(c) When directed by the Center.
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by USCG-2003-14757,
68 FR 39366, July 1, 2003]
Sec. 161.21 Automated reporting.
(a) Unless otherwise directed, vessels equipped with an Automatic
Identification System (AIS) are required to make continuous, all
stations, AIS broadcasts, in lieu of voice Position Reports, to those
Centers denoted in Table 161.12(c) of this part.
(b) Should an AIS become non-operational, while or prior to
navigating a VMRS area, it should be restored to operating condition as
soon as possible, and, until restored a vessel must:
(1) Notify the Center;
(2) Make voice radio Position Reports at designated reporting points
as required by Sec. 161.20(b) of this part; and
(3) Make any other reports as directed by the Center.
[USCG-2003-14757, 68 FR 39366, July 1, 2003]
Sec. 161.22 Final Report (FR).
A vessel must report its name and position:
(a) On arrival at its destination; or
(b) When leaving a VTS area.
Sec. 161.23 Reporting exemptions.
(a) Unless otherwise directed, the following vessels are exempted
from providing Position and Final Reports due to the nature of their
operation:
(1) Vessels on a published schedule and route;
(2) Vessels operating within an area of a radius of three nautical
miles or less; or
(3) Vessels escorting another vessel or assisting another vessel in
maneuvering procedures.
(b) A vessel described in paragraph (a) of this section must:
[[Page 586]]
(1) Provide a Sailing Plan at least 5 minutes but not more than 15
minutes before navigating within the VMRS area; and
(2) If it departs from its promulgated schedule by more than 15
minutes or changes its limited operating area, make the established VMRS
reports, or report as directed.
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by CGD 97-023, 62 FR
33364, June 19, 1997; USCG-2003-14757, 68 FR 39367, July 1, 2003]
Subpart C_Vessel Traffic Service and Vessel Movement Reporting System
Areas and Reporting Points
Note: All geographic coordinates contained in part 161 (latitude and
longitude) are expressed in North American Datum of 1983 (NAD 83).
Sec. 161.25 Vessel Traffic Service New York Area.
The area consists of the navigable waters of the Lower New York
Harbor bounded on the east by a line drawn from Norton Point to Breezy
Point; on the south by a line connecting the entrance buoys at the
Ambrose Channel, Swash Channel, and Sandy Hook Channel to Sandy Hook
Point; and on the southeast including the waters of Sandy Hook Bay south
to a line drawn at latitude 40[deg]25[min] N.; then west into waters of
the Raritan Bay to the Raritan River Rail Road Bridge; and then north
including the waters of the Arthur Kill and Newark Bay to the Lehigh
Valley Draw Bridge at latitude 40[deg]41.9[min] N.; and then east
including the waters of the Kill Van Kull and Upper New York Bay north
to a line drawn east-west from the Holland Tunnel Ventilator Shaft at
latitude 40[deg]43.7[min] N., longitude 74[deg]01.6[min] W. in the
Hudson River; and then continuing east including the waters of the East
River to the Throgs Neck Bridge, excluding the Harlem River.
Note: Although mandatory participation in VTSNY is limited to the
area within the navigable waters of the United States, VTSNY will
provide services beyond those waters. Prospective users are encouraged
to report beyond the area of required participation in order to
facilitate advance vessel traffic management in the VTS area and to
receive VTSNY advisories and/or assistance.
[CGD 92-052, 61 FR 45327, Aug. 29, 1996]
Sec. 161.30 Vessel Traffic Service Louisville.
The VTS area consists of the navigable waters of the Ohio River
between McAlpine Locks (Mile 606.8) and Twelve Mile Island (Mile 593),
only when the McAlpine upper pool gauge is at 13.0 feet or above.
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by USCG-1998-3799,
63 FR 35531, June 30, 1998]
Sec. 161.35 Vessel Traffic Service Houston/Galveston.
(a) The VTS area consists of the following major waterways and
portions of connecting waterways: Galveston Bay Entrance Channel; Outer
Bar Channel; Inner Bar Channel; Bolivar Roads Channel; Galveston
Channel; Gulf ICW and Galveston-Freeport Cut-Off from Mile 346 to Mile
352; Texas City Channel; Texas City Turning Basin; Texas City Canal
Channel; Texas City Canal Turning Basin; Houston Ship Channel; Bayport
Channel; Bayport Turning Basin; Houston Turning Basin; and the following
precautionary areas associated with these waterways.
(b) Precautionary Areas.
Table 161.35(b)--VTS Houston/Galveston Precautionary Areas
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Center point
Precautionary area name Radius ------------------------------
(yds.) Latitude Longitude
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bolivar Roads................ 4000 29[deg]20.9[mi 94[deg]47.0[m
n] N in] W
Red Fish Bar................. 4000 29[deg]29.8[mi 94[deg]51.9[m
n] N in] W
Bayport Channel.............. 4000 29[deg]36.7[mi 94[deg]57.2[m
n] N in] W
Morgans Point................ 2000 29[deg]41.0[mi 94[deg]59.0[m
n] N in] W
Upper San Jacinto Bay........ 1000 29[deg]42.3[mi 95[deg]01.1[m
n] N in] W
Baytown...................... 1000 29[deg]43.6[mi 95[deg]01.4[m
n] N in] W
Lynchburg.................... 1000 29[deg]45.8[mi 95[deg]04.8[m
n] N in] W
Carpenters Bayou............. 1000 29[deg]45.3[mi 95[deg]05.6[m
n] N in] W
Jacintoport.................. 1000 29[deg]44.8[mi 95[deg]06.0[m
n] N in] W
Greens Bayou................. 1000 29[deg]44.8[mi 95[deg]10.2[m
n] N in] W
Hunting Bayou................ 1000 29[deg]44.3[mi 95[deg]12.1[m
n] N in] W
Sims Bayou................... 1000 29[deg]43.1[mi 95[deg]14.4[m
n] N in] W
Brady Island................. 1000 29[deg]43.5[mi 95[deg]16.4[m
n] N in] W
Buffalo Bayou................ 1000 29[deg]45.0[mi 95[deg]17.3[m
n] N in] W
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: Each Precautionary Area encompasses a circular area of the radius
denoted.
(c) Reporting Points.
[[Page 587]]
Table 161.35(c)--VTS Houston/Galveston Reporting Points
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Geographic
Designator Geographic name description Latitude/longitude Notes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1............................... Galveston Bay Galveston Bay 29[deg]18.4[min] ..................
Entrance Channel. Entrance CH N;
Lighted Buoy (LB) 94[deg]37.6[min]
``GB''. W.
2............................... Galveston Bay Galveston Bay 29[deg]20.6[min] ..................
Entrance Channel. Entrance Channel N;
LB 11 and 12. 94[deg]44.6[min]
W.
E............................... Bolivar Land Cut.. Mile 349 29[deg]22.5[min] Tows entering HSC
Intracoastal N; also report at
Waterway (ICW). 94[deg]46.9[min] HSC LB 25 & 26.
W.
W............................... Pelican Cut....... Mile 351 ICW...... 29[deg]21.4[min] Tow entering HSC
N; also report at
94[deg]48.5[min] HSC LB 25 & 26.
W.
GCG............................. Galveston Harbor.. USCG Base. At the 29[deg]20.0[min] ..................
entrance to N;
Galveston Harbor. 94[deg]46.5[min]
W.
T............................... Texas City Channel Texas City Channel 29[deg]22.4[min] ..................
LB 12. N;
94[deg]50.9[min]
W.
X............................... Houston Ship Houston Ship 29[deg]22.1[min] Tow entering HSC
Channel ICW Channel (HSC) LB N; from ICW or Texas
Intersection. 25 and 26. 94[deg]48.1[min] Cut Only.
W..
3............................... Lower Galveston HSC LB 31 and 32.. 29[deg]23.5[min] ..................
Bay. N;
94[deg]48.8[min]
W.
4............................... Red Fish Bar...... HSC Lt. 53A & 54A. 29[deg]30.3[min] ..................
N;
94[deg]52.4[min]
W.
P............................... Bayport Ship Bayport Ship 29[deg]36.8[min] Report at the
Channel. Channel Lt. 8 and N; North Land Cut.
9. 94[deg]59.5[min]
W;.
4A.............................. Upper Galveston HSC Buoys 69 and 29[deg]34.7[min] Tows only.
Bay. 70. N;
94[deg]55.8[min]
W.
5............................... Morgan's Point.... Barbour's Cut..... 29[deg]41.0[min] Abeam Barbours
N; Cut.
94[deg]58.9[min]
W..
6............................... Exxon............. Baytown Bend...... 29[deg]43.5[min] ..................
N;
95[deg]01.4[min]
W.
7............................... Lynchburg......... Ferry crossing.... 29[deg]45.8[min] ..................
N;
95[deg]04.8[min]
W.
8............................... Shell Oil......... Boggy Bayou....... 29[deg]44.1[min] ..................
N;
95[deg]08.0[min]
W.
9............................... Greens Bayou...... Greens Bayou...... 29[deg]44.8[min] ..................
N;
95[deg]10.1[min]
W.
10.............................. Hess Turning Basin Hunting Bayou 29[deg]44.3[min]
Turning Basin. N;95[deg]12.1[min
] W.
11.............................. Lyondell Turning Sims Bayou Turning 29[deg]43.2[min]
Basin. Basin. N;
95[deg]14.4[min]
W.
12.............................. I-610 Bridge...... I-610 Bridge...... 29[deg]43.5[min]
N;
95[deg]16.0[min]
W.
13.............................. Houston Turning Buffalo Bayou..... 29[deg]45.0[min]
Basin. N;
95[deg]17.4[min]
W.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by CGD 95-033, 60 FR
28331, May 31, 1995; USCG-2000-7223, 65 FR 40058, June 29, 2000]
Sec. 161.40 Vessel Traffic Service Berwick Bay.
(a) The VTS area consists of the navigable waters of the following
segments of waterways: the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) Morgan City to
Port Allen Alternate Route from Mile Marker 0 to Mile Marker 5; the ICW
from Mile Marker 93 west of Harvey Lock (WHL) to Mile Marker 102 WHL;
the Atchafalaya River Route from Mile Marker 113 to Mile Marker 122;
from Bayou Shaffer Junction (ICW Mile Marker 94.5 WHL) south one statute
mile along Bayou Shaffer; and from Berwick Lock northwest one statute
mile along the Lower Atchafalaya River.
(b) VTS Special Area. The Berwick Bay VTS Special Area consists of
those waters within a 1000 yard radius of the Southern Pacific Railroad
Bridge located at Mile .03 MC/PA.
(c) Reporting Points.
Table 161.40(c)--VTS Berwick Bay Reporting Points
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Geographic
Designator Geographic name description Latitude/longitude Notes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1............................... Stouts Pass....... Stouts Point Light 29[deg]43[min]47[s
``1'' Mile 113- ec] N
Atchafalaya River. 91[deg]13[min]25[s
ec] W
2............................... Berwick Lock...... Mile 1.9 MC/PA.... 29[deg]43[min]10[s If transiting the
ec] N Lock.
91[deg]13[min]28[s
ec] W
3............................... Conrad's Point Buoy ``1'' Mile 29[deg]42[min]32[s
Junction. 1.5 MC/PA. ec] N
91[deg]13[min]14[s
ec] W
4............................... Swift Ships Flat Mile 3 MC/PA...... 29[deg]43[min]26[s
Lake Junction. ec] N
91[deg]12[min]22[s
ec] W
5............................... South Pacific Mile 0.3 MC/PA.... 29[deg]41[min]34[s
Railroad Bridge. ec] N
91[deg]12[min]44[s
ec] W
6............................... 20 Grant Point Bayou Boeuf- 29[deg]41[min]18[s
Junction. Atchafalaya R. ec] N
Mile 95.5 ICW. 91[deg]12[min]36[s
ec] W
[[Page 588]]
7............................... ICW............... Overhead Power 29[deg]40[min]43[s
Cable Mile 96.5 ec] N
ICW. 91[deg]13[min]18[s
ec] W
8............................... Wax Bayou Junction Light ``A'' Mile 29[deg]39[min]29[s
98.2W ICW. ec] N
91[deg]14[min]46[s
ec] W
9............................... Shaffer Junction.. ICW-Bayou Shaffer 29[deg]41[min]10[s
Mile 94.5 ICW. ec] N
91[deg]11[min]38[s
ec] W
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by CGD 95-033, 60 FR
28332, May 31, 1995; USCG-1998-3799, 63 FR 35531, June 30, 1998]
Sec. 161.45 Vessel Traffic Service St. Marys River.
(a) The VTS area consists of the navigable waters of the St. Marys
River and lower Whitefish Bay from 45[deg]57[min] N. (De Tour Reef
Light) to the south, to 46[deg]38.7[min] N. (Ile Parisienne Light) to
the north, except the waters of the St. Marys Falls Canal, and to the
east along a line from La Pointe to Sims Point, within Potagannissing
Bay and Worsley Bay.
(b) Reporting Points.
Table 161.45(b)--VTS St. Marys River Reporting Points
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Geographic
Designator Geographic name description Latitude/longitude Notes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1............................... Ile Parisienne.... Ile Parisienne 46[deg]37.3[min] Downbound Only.
Light. N;
84[deg]45.9[min]
W.
2............................... Gros Cap Reef..... Gros Cap Reefs 46[deg]30.6[min] Upbound Only.
Light. N;
84[deg]37.1[min]
W.
3............................... Round Island...... Round Island Light 46[deg]26.9[min]
32. N;
84[deg]31.7[min]W
.
4............................... Pointe Louise..... Pointe Louise 46[deg]27.8[min]
Light. N;
84[deg]28.2[min]W
.
5*.............................. West End of Locks. West Center 46[deg]30.2[min] Upbound Only.
Pierhead Light. N;
84[deg]22.2[min]
W.
6............................... East End of Locks. East Center 46[deg]30.1[min] Downbound Only.
Pierhead Light. N;
84[deg]20.3[min]
W.
7............................... Mission Point..... Light 99.......... 46[deg]29.2[min]
N;
84[deg]18.1[min]W
.
8............................... Six Mile Point.... Six Mile Point.... 46[deg]26.1[min]
N;
84[deg]15.4[min]W
.
9............................... Ninemile Point.... Light 80.......... 46[deg]23.5[min]
N;
84[deg]14.1[min]W
.
10.............................. West Neebish Light 29.......... 46[deg]16.9[min] Downbound Only.
Channel. N;
84[deg]12.5[min]
W.
11.............................. Munuscong Lake Lighted Junction 46[deg]10.8[min]
Junction. Buoy. N;
84[deg]05.6[min]W
.
12.............................. De Tour Reef...... De Tour Reef Light 46[deg]56.9[min] ..................
N;
83[deg]53.7[min]
W.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by CGD 95-033, 60 FR
28332, May 31, 1995; USCG-1998-3799, 63 FR 35531, June 30, 1998]
Sec. 161.50 Vessel Traffic Service San Francisco.
The VTS area consists of all the navigable waters of San Francisco
Bay Region south of the Mare Island Causeway Bridge and the Petaluma
River Entrance Channel Daybeacon 19 and Petaluma River Entrace Channel
Light 20 and north of the Dumbarton Bridge; its seaward approaches
within a 38 nautical mile radius of Mount Tamalpais (37-55.8[min] N.,
122-34.6[min] W.); and its navigable tributaries as far east as the port
of Stockton on the San Joaquin River, as far north as the port of
Sacramento on the Sacramento River.
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by CGD 95-033, 60 FR
28332, May 31, 1995]
Sec. 161.55 Vessel Traffic Service Puget Sound and the Cooperative
Vessel Traffic Service for the Juan de Fuca Region.
The Vessel Traffic Service Puget Sound area consists of the
navigable waters of the United States bounded by a line drawn from the
Washington State coastline at 48[deg]23[min]08[sec] N.,
124[deg]43[min]37[sec] W. on Cape Flattery to the Cape Flattery Light at
48[deg]23[min]30[sec] N., 124[deg]44[min]12[sec] W. on Tatoosh Island,
due west to the U.S. Territorial Sea Boundary; thence northward along
the U.S. Territorial Sea Boundary to its intersection with the U.S./
Canada International Boundary; thence east along the U.S./Canada
International Boundary through the waters known as the Strait of Juan de
Fuca, Haro Strait, Boundary Pass, and
[[Page 589]]
the Strait of Georgia to the Washington State coastline at
49[deg]00[min]06[sec] N., 122[deg]45[min]18[sec] W. (International
Boundary Range C Rear Light). This area includes: Puget Sound, Hood
Canal, Possession Sound, the San Juan Island Archipelago, Rosario
Strait, Guemes Channel, Bellingham Bay, the U.S. waters of the Strait of
Juan de Fuca and the Strait of Georgia, and all waters adjacent to the
above.
(a) Vessel Traffic Service Puget Sound participates in a U.S./
Canadian Cooperative Vessel Traffic Service (CVTS) to jointly manage
vessel traffic in the Juan de Fuca Region. The CVTS for the Juan de Fuca
Region consists of all waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and its
offshore approaches, southern Georgia Strait, the Gulf and San Juan
Archipelagos, Rosario Strait, Boundary Pass and Haro Strait, bounded on
the northwest by 48[deg]35[min]45[sec] N.; and on the southwest by
48[deg]23[min]30[sec] N.; and on the west by the rhumb line joining
48[deg]35[min]45[sec] N., 124[deg]47[min]30[sec] W. with
48[deg]23[min]30[sec] N., 124[deg]48[min]37[sec] W.; and on the
northeast in the Strait of Georgia, by a line drawn along 49[deg] N.
from Vancouver Island to Semiahmoo Bay; and on the southeast, by a line
drawn from McCurdy Point on the Quimper Peninsula to Point Partridge on
Whidbey Island. Canadian and United States Vessel Traffic Centers
(Tofino, B.C., Canada, Vancouver, BC, Canada and Seattle, WA) manage
traffic within the CVTS area irrespective of the International Boundary.
(b) VTS Special Areas. (1) The Rosario Strait VTS Special Area
consists of those waters bounded to the south by the center of
Precautionary Area ``RB'' (a circular area of 2,500 yards radius
centered at 48[deg]26[min]24[sec] N., 122[deg]45[min]12[sec] W.), and to
the north by the center of Precautionary Area ``C'' (a circular area of
2,500 yards radius centered at 48[deg]40[min]34[sec] N.,
122[deg]42[min]44[sec] W.; Lighted Buoy ``C''); and
Note: The center of precautionary area ``RB'' is not marked by a
buoy. All precautionary areas are depicted on National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) nautical charts.
(2) The Guemes Channel VTS Special Area consists of those waters
bounded to the west by Shannon Point on Fidalgo Island and to the east
by Southeast Point on Guemes Island.
(c) Additional VTS Special Area Operating Requirements. The
following additional requirements are applicable in the Rosario Strait
and Guemes Channel VTS Special Areas:
(1) A vessel engaged in towing shall not impede the passage of a
vessel of 40,000 dead weight tons or more.
(2) A vessel of less than 40,000 dead weight tons is exempt from the
provision set forth in Sec. 161.13(b)(1) of this part.
(3) A vessel of less than 100 meters in length is exempt from the
provisions set forth in Sec. 161.13(b)(3) of this part. Approval will
not be granted for:
(i) A vessel of 100 meters or more in length to meet or overtake; or
cross or operate within 2,000 yards (except when crossing astern) of a
vessel of 40,000 dead weight tons or more; or
(ii) A vessel of 40,000 dead weight tons or more to meet or
overtake; or cross or operate within 2,000 yards (except when crossing
astern) of a vessel of 100 meters or more in length.
(d) Reporting Point. Inbound vessels in the Strait of Juan de Fuca
upon crossing 124-W.
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by USCG-1998-3799,
63 FR 35531, June 30, 1998]
Sec. 161.60 Vessel Traffic Service Prince William Sound.
(a) The VTS area consists of the navigable waters of the United
States north of a line drawn from Cape Hinchinbrook Light to Schooner
Rock Light, comprising that portion of Prince William Sound between
146[deg]30[min] W. and 147[deg]20[min] W. and includes Valdez Arm,
Valdez Narrows and Port Valdez.
(b) The Valdez Arm VTS Special Area consists of the waters of the
Valdez Arm Traffic Separation Scheme (described in Sec. 167.1703 of
this chapter); the waters northeast of a line drawn from shoreline to
shoreline through the points 60[deg]58.04[min] N, 146[deg]46.52[min] W
and 60[deg]58.93[min] N, 146[deg]48.86[min] W; and southwest of a line
bearing 307[deg] True from Tongue Point at 61[deg]02.10[min] N,
146[deg]40.00[min] W.
(c) The Valdez Narrows VTS Special Area consists of those waters of
Valdez Arm, Valdez Narrows, and Port Valdez northeast of a line bearing
307[deg] True from Tongue Point at 61[deg]02[min]06[sec] 146[deg]40[min]
W.; and southwest of a line bearing 307[deg]
[[Page 590]]
True from Entrance Island Light at 61[deg]05[min]06[sec] N.,
146[deg]36[min]42[sec] W.
(d) Additional VTS Special Area Operating Requirements. The
following additional requirements are applicable in the Valdez Narrows
VTS Special Area:
(1) No VMRS User shall proceed north of 61[deg] N. without prior
approval of the VTS.
(2) For a vessel listed in paragraph (c)(3) of this section--
(i) Approval to enter this area will not be granted to a vessel when
a tank vessel of more than 20,000 deadweight tons is navigating therein;
(ii) A northbound vessel shall remain south of 61[deg] N. until the
VTS has granted permission to proceed; and
(iii) A southbound vessel shall remain in Port Valdez east of
146[deg]35[min] W. and north of 61[deg]06[min] N. until the VTS has
granted permission to proceed.
(3) Paragraph (c)(2) of this section applies to--
(i) A vessel of 1600 gross tons or more; and
(ii) A towing vessel of 8 meters or more in length, except for a
vessel performing duties as an escort vessel as defined in 33 CFR Part
168.
(e) Reporting Points.
Table 161.60(d)--VTS Prince William Sound Reporting Points
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Designator Geographic name Geographic description Latitude/longitude Notes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1A............... Cape Hinchinbrook..... Cape Hinchinbrook..... 60[deg]16[min]18[Sec. Northbound Only.
N;
146[deg]45[min]30[se
c] W.
1B............... Schooner Rock......... Schooner Rock......... 60[deg]18[min]42[Sec. Southbound Only.
N;
146[deg]51[min]36[se
c] W.
2A............... Naked Island.......... Naked Island.......... 60[deg]40[min]00[Sec. Northbound Only.
N;
147[deg]01[min]24[se
c] W.
2B............... Naked Island.......... Naked Island.......... 60[deg]40[min]00[Sec. Southbound Only.
N;
147[deg]05[min]00[se
c] W.
3A............... Bligh Reef............ Bligh Reef Light 60[deg]50[min]36[Sec. Northbound Only.
(Pilot Embark). N;
146[deg]57[min]30[se
c] W.
3B............... Bligh Reef............ Bligh Reef Light 60[deg]51[min]00[Sec. Southbound Only.
(Pilot Disembark). N;
147[deg]01[min]24[se
c] W.
4A............... Rocky Point........... Rocky Point........... 60[deg]57[min]48[Sec. Northbound Only.
N;
146[deg]47[min]30[se
c] W.
4B............... Rocky Point........... Rocky Point........... 60[deg]57[min]48[Sec. Southbound Only.
N;
146[deg]50[min]00[se
c] W.
5................ Entrance Island....... Entrance Island Light. 61[deg]05[min]24[sec]
N;
146[deg]37[min]30[se
c] W..
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[CGD 90-020, 59 FR 36324, July 15, 1994, as amended by CGD 95-033, 60 FR
28332, May 31, 1995; USCG-1998-3799, 63 FR 35532, June 30, 1998; USCG-
2001-10254, 67 FR 53742, Aug. 19, 2002]