In narrow channels, which side should a vessel aim to keep close to when safe?

In narrow channels, vessels should aim to keep close to the right side, which aligns with the general maritime practice of navigating according to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). This guideline emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe and predictable path to minimize the risk of collisions.

By keeping to the right side of the channel, vessels align with the rules governing navigation and promote safer traffic flow, especially in a situation where multiple vessels may be attempting to navigate the same waterway. Additionally, maintaining a right-side orientation helps larger vessels, which often have limited maneuverability, to navigate the channel more safely.

The other choices suggest alternatives that could increase the risk of accidents or confusion among vessels. For instance, staying in the center of the channel could obstruct traffic and pose a hazard, while saying that both sides are acceptable may lead to uncertainty and unpredictability in navigation. Therefore, keeping close to the right side of a narrow channel when it is safe to do so is the preferred and safest practice.