Question 1734 Deck General

The correct answer is A) not more than 20 nautical miles offshore in the ocean. According to the small passenger vessel regulations, a coastwise route is defined as one that is not more than 20 nautical miles offshore in the ocean. This means the vessel must remain within 20 nautical miles from the shoreline while operating. The other options are incorrect because they do not accurately define a coastwise route. Option B refers to a different type of route, option C describes a route in the Gulf of Alaska, and option D specifies a distance in statute miles rather than nautical miles, which is the standard unit used in maritime regulations.