Question 20 RVR04 - Master or Mate of LT 200 GRT

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (Correct):** Option B is correct based on the **Inland Navigational Rules (33 CFR Subchapter E)**, specifically Rule 9 (Narrow Channels). Rule 9(b) states: "A vessel proceeding along the course of a narrow channel or fairway shall not impede the passage of a vessel that can safely navigate only within that channel or fairway." Rule 9(c) addresses crossing vessels: "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 that channel or fairway. The latter vessel shall use the danger signal (five or more short blasts of the whistle) if in doubt as to the intention of the crossing vessel." When a vessel is proceeding *along* the river (ascending in this case) and a vessel is crossing the river, the vessel proceeding along the channel (the ascending vessel) is the "privileged" vessel whose passage must not be impeded. Therefore, the vessel ascending the river has the right of way. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **A) You are required to propose the manner of passage.** This is incorrect. As the crossing vessel, you are the burdened vessel (required not to impede). You must take action to avoid impeding the ascending vessel, but the Rules assign the primary right of way to the vessel proceeding along the narrow channel, not the crossing vessel. Proposing the manner of passage is not the primary requirement; avoiding impediment is. * **C) Your vessel has the right of way, but you are directed not to impede the other vessel.** This is incorrect. Rule 9 dictates that your vessel (the crossing vessel) does *not* have the right of way. The right of way belongs to the vessel maintaining its course within the narrow channel. The instruction not to impede is correct, but the premise that you have the right of way is false. * **D) The other vessel must hold as necessary to allow you to pass.** This is incorrect. This statement completely reverses the requirement of Rule 9. The ascending vessel is the privileged vessel navigating along the channel and is required to maintain course and speed as long as risk of collision exists and the crossing vessel is taking appropriate action. It is the crossing vessel (your vessel) that must hold back or alter course to allow the ascending vessel to pass safely.