A vessel proceeding downstream in a narrow channel on the Western Rivers sights another vessel moving upstream. Which vessel has the right of way?

When two vessels are navigating in a narrow channel on the Western Rivers, the vessel proceeding downstream has the right of way. This stems from the principles established in navigation rules that prioritize safety and reduce the risk of collision in constrained waterways. The downstream vessel is typically benefiting from the current, which provides it with an advantage in maneuverability and speed.

In narrow channels, vessels moving upstream must usually yield to those traveling downstream. This is due to the upstream vessel’s more challenging navigation, as it is working against the current. The guidance for these situations emphasizes maintaining safety and minimizing the risk of accidents, particularly in confined spaces where options for evasion are limited. Therefore, the downstream vessel retains the right of way, allowing it to proceed while the upstream vessel must be prepared to give way.

While the size of the vessels may come into play in some maritime contexts, the rules for right of way in this scenario prioritize the direction of travel related to the current rather than the dimensions of the vessels involved. Similarly, both vessels stopping is not a practical solution, as it would create confusion and potentially lead to dangerous situations in a narrow navigational channel.