USCG Exam Practice · Rule 13 — Overtaking

Vessel A is overtaking Vessel B in a narrow channel. Vessel B is a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver. After Vessel A begins the overtaking maneuver, the relative bearing shifts and Vessel B appears to be crossing ahead of Vessel A. Vessel A's master argues the situation has become a crossing encounter and that Vessel B, as the give-way vessel under Rule 18, must now yield. Is this argument correct under the Inland Rules?

1. AYes, because Rule 18 places a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver above a power-driven vessel in the hierarchy, making Vessel A the give-way vessel in a crossing situation.
2. BNo, because Rule 13(d) provides that any subsequent alteration of bearing does not relieve the overtaking vessel of the duty to keep clear until she is finally past and clear.✓ correct
3. CYes, because once the bearing changes sufficiently, Rule 15 governs and the vessel with the other on her starboard side becomes the give-way vessel.
4. DNo, because in a narrow channel the vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver always has absolute right of way regardless of the overtaking rule.