What action is required when encountering large vessels in narrow channels?

When navigating through narrow channels, it's important to adhere to the principle of yielding the right of way to larger vessels. Larger vessels, such as cargo ships and tankers, often have limited maneuverability and require more space to navigate safely. By yielding the right of way, you help prevent potential collisions and ensure a more efficient flow of traffic in the channel, which can be crucial for safety.

This rule is established by navigational regulations to protect both vessels and crews. Smaller boats typically have more maneuverability and can adjust their course and speed more easily than large vessels. This responsibility to yield also reflects the broader guideline of safe seamanship, which emphasizes consideration for all vessels, especially those that are less able to react quickly in constrained environments.

In contrast, speeding up to pass quickly may increase the risk of a collision and does not take into account the large vessel's ability to navigate safely. Maintaining your course and speed without regard for the larger vessel may also lead to dangerous situations, while signaling for passage might not be appropriate when the larger vessel already has right of way and is navigating through a narrow channel. Therefore, yielding the right of way is essential for safe boating practices.