# Shipping channels

_The ‘give way’ rules depend on what type of boat you’re on and the type of boat you’re approaching._

## Keep clear of big ships

Be aware a ship’s blind spot can extend for hundreds of metres.

![](https://www.boprc.govt.nz/media/796451/keep-clear-of-ships-2.jpg)

If the pilot vessel or patrol boat asks you to move from the shipping channels, you must move promptly.

Remember that large ships need plenty of room and will be travelling a lot faster than you think, as they enter our harbours. This also means they cannot stop quickly.

Do not cross the bow of a large ship, they cannot see you. Keep your distance.

When fishing in the main Tauranga Harbour channel, allow plenty of time to move out of the way.

### Why is that ship honking its horn?

Manoeuvring signals, or horns, are used by ships to indicate what they are about to do.

'I am turning to starboard.'

'I am turning to port'

'My engines are operating astern' - this does not necessarily mean my craft is going backwards.

'I don't understand your intentions' - better known as 'what on earth are you doing?