BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND Your 15-meter tug is underway and crossing a deep and narrow channel. A large container vessel is off your port bow on a steady bearing. Which statement is TRUE concerning this situation?
• Narrow channels rule in the Navigation Rules (International & Inland) • The meaning of not to impede versus normal give-way/stand-on responsibilities • Responsibilities of vessels crossing a narrow channel compared to vessels that can safely navigate only within it
• Ask yourself: In a deep, narrow channel, which vessel is more constrained to the channel – the tug crossing or the large container ship proceeding along it? • Think about how the Rules treat vessels that must stay in the channel versus smaller vessels that can safely navigate outside it. • Consider whether normal crossing rules (port/starboard) fully apply here, or whether a special narrow channel obligation takes priority.
• Verify what the narrow channels rule says about vessels crossing a channel and their duty regarding vessels that can safely navigate only within that channel. • Check whether size alone makes a vessel stand-on under the Rules, or whether it’s about the type of vessel and its ability to maneuver outside the channel. • Confirm whether a vessel in your position should maintain course and speed or instead take early action to avoid impeding the other vessel’s safe passage.
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