Rule 9 — Narrow Channels

33 CFR §83.09

Narrow channels (Rule 9). (a)(i) A vessel proceeding along the course of a narrow channel or fairway shall keep as near to the outer limit of the channel or fairway which lies on her starboard side as is safe and practicable. (ii) Notwithstanding paragraph (a)(i) of this Rule and Rule 14(a) (§ 83.14(a)), a power-driven vessel operating in narrow channels or fairways on the Great Lakes, Western Rivers, or waters specified by the Secretary, and proceeding downbound with a following current shall have the right-of-way over an upbound vessel, shall propose the manner and place of passage, and shall initiate the maneuvering signals prescribed by Rule 34(a)(i) (§ 83.34(a)(i)), as appropriate. The vessel proceeding upbound against the current shall hold as necessary to permit safe passing. (b)…

COLREGs Rule 9

Narrow Channels (a) A vessel proceeding along the course of a narrow channel or fairway shall keep as near to the outer limit of the channel or fairway which lies on her starboard side as is safe and practicable. (b) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not impede the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway. (c) A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of any other vessel navigating within a narrow channel or fairway. (d) A vessel shall not cross a narrow channel or fairway if such crossing impedes the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within such channel or fairway. The latter vessel may use the sound signal prescribed in Rule 34(d) if in doubt as to the intention of the crossing…

COLREGs Rule 9(a)

Narrow Channels (a) A vessel proceeding along the course of a narrow channel or fairway shall keep as near to the outer limit of the channel or fairway which lies on her starboard side as is safe and practicable. Relationship to the Inland Rules: Inland Rule 9 differs from this rule — compare against 33 CFR 83.09 before answering a question that turns on which set applies.

COLREGs Rule 9(b)

Narrow Channels (b) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not impede the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway. Relationship to the Inland Rules: Inland Rule 9 differs from this rule — compare against 33 CFR 83.09 before answering a question that turns on which set applies.

COLREGs Rule 9(c)

Narrow Channels (c) A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of any other vessel navigating within a narrow channel or fairway. Relationship to the Inland Rules: Inland Rule 9 differs from this rule — compare against 33 CFR 83.09 before answering a question that turns on which set applies.

COLREGs Rule 9(d)

Narrow Channels (d) A vessel shall not cross a narrow channel or fairway if such crossing impedes the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within such channel or fairway. The latter vessel may use the sound signal prescribed in Rule 34(d) if in doubt as to the intention of the crossing vessel. Relationship to the Inland Rules: Inland Rule 9 differs from this rule — compare against 33 CFR 83.09 before answering a question that turns on which set applies.