A vessel navigating in a narrow channel should:

When a vessel is navigating in a narrow channel, it is important to adhere to the principle of keeping as near as safe and practicable to the limit of the channel on her starboard side. This practice helps ensure that there is sufficient space for other vessels to pass, particularly those that may be following the conventions of the Rules of the Road. By doing so, the vessel maintains a safe distance from the channel's edge, which minimizes the risk of grounding or collision with objects or other vessels.

The emphasis on the starboard side relates to the general navigational rules that require vessels to favor their starboard side when navigating narrow channels. This also helps in situations where two vessels are approaching each other within the channel, making it clear which side each should keep to for safe passage.

While choices involving other sides or the center of the channel may appear reasonable, they do not adhere to the convention of safe navigation practices in limited spaces. Avoiding the channel entirely is not always a viable option, especially if the navigation is essential, which emphasizes that familiarity with these rules is critical for safe operations in constrained waterways.