Towing & Ship-Assist · Western Rivers — Right of Way
Under the Inland Rules on the Western Rivers, when two power-driven vessels meet, the vessel proceeding:
- AFaster always stands on
- BUpbound against the current always has the right of way
- CDownbound with the current has the right of way and proposes the manner and place of passage✓ Correct
- DOn the port side always gives way
Explanation
On the Western Rivers (and waters specified by the Inland Rules), a vessel running downbound with a following current is less maneuverable, so it holds the right of way and initiates the passing signals, proposing how and where the upbound vessel should pass.
Authority: Inland Navigation Rules, Rule 14(d) and Rule 15(b)
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