Last updated 4 October 2026. By signing in to or using tankersurf you agree to these terms. If you don't agree, don't use it.
Large ships are dangerous, and so are their wakes. A ship can't stop or turn for you. Stay well clear of shipping lanes and of any vessel under way, follow US Coast Guard rules, and never paddle out because a forecast says a ship is coming. Wakes can be bigger, steeper or later than predicted, and can sweep a beach without warning.
tankersurf is not for navigation or safety decisions.
tankersurf estimates when large ships will pass watch spots and when their wakes may reach the shore. It's built from public AIS broadcasts and National Weather Service forecasts, and every number on it is an estimate. Ships change speed, divert, anchor or switch off their transponders; feeds drop out; the model is simplified. Forecasts can be wrong, late, or missing entirely.
You decide whether, when and where to go in the water, and you do so at your own risk. Check conditions yourself, know your limits, respect closures and private property, and don't rely on tankersurf for your safety or anyone else's.
tankersurf is provided as is and as available, without warranties of any kind, express or implied, including accuracy, availability, or fitness for any purpose. It may change, pause or shut down without notice.
To the fullest extent the law allows, the people who run tankersurf are not liable for any injury, loss or damage — including to people, boards, boats or property — arising from using it or relying on it, or from its being unavailable or wrong.
These terms may be updated; the date above shows when. Continuing to use tankersurf after a change means you accept the new terms.
Questions about these terms can go to the person who runs the site. How your details are handled is covered in the privacy notice.