Which statement is TRUE concerning narrow channels according to the Rules of the Road?

Which statement is TRUE concerning narrow channels according to the Rules of the Road?

• A. You should avoid anchoring in a narrow channel.
• B. Anchoring is required in the center of the channel.
• C. Vessels may anchor anywhere.
• D. Only sailing vessels may anchor.

Answer: (A)

In a narrow channel, keeping the passage clear for other vessels is the priority. Anchoring there would block the fairway and hinder safe or efficient navigation for traffic sharing the channel, so the recommended practice is to avoid anchoring in a narrow channel altogether. The idea isn’t that you must never stop, but that you should not place yourself where you impede the flow of traffic; if you must stop, you should do so outside the channel in a place that does not obstruct others. The other statements imply permissive or location-based rules that don’t align with this guidance. Anchoring in the center of the channel would create a direct obstacle to passing vessels. Saying vessels may anchor anywhere ignores the traffic-safety requirement in narrow channels. Limiting anchoring to sailing vessels ignores that the restriction applies to all vessels when the channel is needed for safe two-way passage.

In a narrow channel, keeping the passage clear for other vessels is the priority. Anchoring there would block the fairway and hinder safe or efficient navigation for traffic sharing the channel, so the recommended practice is to avoid anchoring in a narrow channel altogether. The idea isn’t that you must never stop, but that you should not place yourself where you impede the flow of traffic; if you must stop, you should do so outside the channel in a place that does not obstruct others.

The other statements imply permissive or location-based rules that don’t align with this guidance. Anchoring in the center of the channel would create a direct obstacle to passing vessels. Saying vessels may anchor anywhere ignores the traffic-safety requirement in narrow channels. Limiting anchoring to sailing vessels ignores that the restriction applies to all vessels when the channel is needed for safe two-way passage.