USCG Exam PracticeRule 18 — Responsibilities Between Vessels
A vessel engaged in fishing is underway and approaching a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver. Under Inland Rule 18, what is the fishing vessel's obligation?
- A. She shall keep out of the way of the RAM vessel, as required absolutely.
- ✓ She shall keep out of the way of the RAM vessel, so far as possible.Correct
- C. She is the stand-on vessel because she is engaged in fishing.
- D. Both vessels share equal give-way responsibility.
Why B is correct
33 CFR §83.18(c)(ii) states that a vessel engaged in fishing when underway shall, 'so far as possible,' keep out of the way of a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver. The qualifier 'so far as possible' is significant and distinguishes this obligation from the absolute duty imposed on power-driven vessels under §83.18(a).
Cited:33 CFR §83.18