What is ship lane?

A ship lane is a designated shipping route or channel in a waterway used by ships to travel safely and avoid obstacles such as rocks, reefs, sandbars, and other vessels. It is usually marked by buoys, beacons, and navigational aids to guide ships along the correct path. The width of a ship lane varies depending on the size of the ships and the depth of the water, but they are typically at least two times wider than the beam of the largest ship that uses it. Traffic separation schemes are also implemented to regulate the flow of ships in a ship lane and prevent collisions as well as provide efficient and safe traffic movement. The authorities responsible for managing ship lanes are ports and harbors, who monitor and maintain them regularly to ensure safe navigation.