With the Lake Express ferry entering and exiting Muskegon Lake 3 times a day there a several rules of the road situations that will become common.

When the ferry enters Muskegon Lake and when docking at the Muskegon terminal Rule 9/narrow channels applies. Part B of rule 9 reads “A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not impede the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway.”

So, unless you are piloting a boat 65 feet or longer it’s simple stay out of the ferry’s way!

Part A of this rule reads, “A vessel proceeding along the course of a narrow channel or fairway shall keep as near to the outer limit of the channel or fairway which lies on her starboard side as is safe and practicable.” So, unless you are 65 feet or up stay to the starboard side of the channel and give the ferry room to operate.

In the channel from Muskegon Lake to Lake Michigan there is room to set a course on the starboard side and safely pass the ferry.

In the short channel from Muksegon Lake to the terminal, prudent seamanship would dictate that you not attempt to pass the ferry. Part D of Rule 9 reads, “A vessel shall not cross a narrow passage or fairway if such crossing impedes the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within such channel or fairway.” This applies as the ferry approaches and leaves the terminal. Especially when the ferry is turning to it’s dock, or un docking, crossing the channel would impede the ferry.

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