Which vessel is NOT to impede the passage of a vessel that can only navigate safely within a narrow channel?

Which vessel is NOT to impede the passage of a vessel that can only navigate safely within a narrow channel?

• A. Any vessel less than 20 meters in length
• B. Any sailing vessel
• C. A vessel engaged in fishing
• D. A vessel constrained by its draft

Answer: (C)

In a narrow channel, vessels that can only navigate safely within that confined water are given priority, and certain other vessels are exempt from impeding their passage. A fishing vessel is one of the categories specifically exempt from impeding the passage of a vessel that can navigate only within a narrow channel. So, the fishing vessel should not block or hinder that vessel’s transit. This rule also includes other exemptions—small vessels, sailing vessels, and vessels constrained by their draft—but the correct choice here points to one of the exempt types, illustrating how the rule allocates priority in restricted waterways.

In a narrow channel, vessels that can only navigate safely within that confined water are given priority, and certain other vessels are exempt from impeding their passage. A fishing vessel is one of the categories specifically exempt from impeding the passage of a vessel that can navigate only within a narrow channel. So, the fishing vessel should not block or hinder that vessel’s transit. This rule also includes other exemptions—small vessels, sailing vessels, and vessels constrained by their draft—but the correct choice here points to one of the exempt types, illustrating how the rule allocates priority in restricted waterways.