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USCG Exam Practice · Rule 9 — Narrow Channels

On the Western Rivers, two power-driven vessels are meeting in a narrow channel. Vessel A is proceeding downbound with a following current; Vessel B is proceeding upbound. Under the Inland Navigation Rules, which vessel has the right-of-way and is responsible for proposing the manner and place of passage?

  1. AVessel B, the upbound vessel, because she is burdened by the current
  2. BVessel A, the downbound vessel, because she has a following current✓ correct
  3. CNeither vessel; they must agree by radio before initiating signals
  4. DThe vessel that first sounds a maneuvering signal

Why B is correct

33 CFR §83.09(a)(ii) provides that on the Western Rivers (and Great Lakes and waters specified by the Secretary), a power-driven vessel proceeding downbound with a following current has the right-of-way over an upbound vessel, shall propose the manner and place of passage, and shall initiate the maneuvering signals. The upbound vessel shall hold as necessary.

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On the Western Rivers, two power-driven vessels are meeting in a na… — USCG Exam Practice · CaptainsGround