Since the current recommended route (Route T) for transit from Skagen to the Great Belt was established over 40 years ago, vessel numbers and size has increased considerably. Today over 70,000 vessels sail through the Kattegat annually many of which are large tankers sailing to and from the Baltic. In order to reduce the risk of accidents and oil spills, the Danish and Swedish authorities have worked together to establish new routing measures, for vessel movement through the Skagerrak, Kattegat and the Sound.
The new routing system will enter into force on July 1st 2020 , the map below provides an overview of the route system elements (traffic separation systems, inshore traffic zones, precautionary areas, deep water routes and recommended routes).
Updated charting for the new route system. It is important that the elements of this new route system are clearly presented to the shipping industry so that vessels are able to plan and accurately monitor safe passage through the new route system. The charts are thus both for the use of commercial sailing, but equally for all recreational sailors who enter the named waters. Mariners should pay special attention to the minimum depths and maximum draughts of the recommended routes and deep-water routes, which have been determined from the latest survey data. Details are included in the latest versions of the available digital and paper charts.
Find more information for recreational boating here
Find more information for commercial shipping here