In a narrow-channel scenario, a sailing vessel is proceeding along a narrow channel and can safely navigate ONLY inside the channel. The sailing vessel approaches a vessel engaged in fishing in the narrow channel. Which statement is TRUE?

In a narrow-channel scenario, a sailing vessel is proceeding along a narrow channel and can safely navigate ONLY inside the channel. The sailing vessel approaches a vessel engaged in fishing in the narrow channel. Which statement is TRUE?

• A. The fishing vessel is directed not to impede the passage of the sailing vessel.
• B. The sailing vessel must slow to allow the fishing vessel to pass.
• C. The fishing vessel has the right of way.
• D. The sailing vessel should exit the channel to pass the fishing vessel.

Answer: (A)

In a narrow channel, the vessel that can safely navigate only within that channel has priority over others that could maneuver outside it. Here, the sailing vessel is limited to staying inside the channel, so it has the right of way. The fishing vessel, not being so constrained, must avoid impeding the sailing vessel’s passage. That’s why the correct statement is that the fishing vessel is directed not to impede the passage. The sailing vessel does not need to slow or exit the channel simply because the fishing vessel is present, and the fishing vessel does not have the right of way.

In a narrow channel, the vessel that can safely navigate only within that channel has priority over others that could maneuver outside it. Here, the sailing vessel is limited to staying inside the channel, so it has the right of way. The fishing vessel, not being so constrained, must avoid impeding the sailing vessel’s passage. That’s why the correct statement is that the fishing vessel is directed not to impede the passage. The sailing vessel does not need to slow or exit the channel simply because the fishing vessel is present, and the fishing vessel does not have the right of way.