In a narrow channel, which vessel must keep clear when a sailing vessel and a fishing vessel are approaching?

In a narrow channel, specific rules are established to ensure safe navigation between vessels. A fishing vessel, when actively engaged in fishing, is often required to keep clear of a sailing vessel. This is because sailing vessels, under international maritime regulations, have the right of way in these situations, particularly when operating under sail alone.

When a sailing vessel is approaching, it is typically presumed to have the maneuverability necessary to navigate around, while the fishing vessel may be restricted in its ability to change course due to its operational status. Therefore, the responsibility falls on the fishing vessel to take measures to avoid collision, allowing the sailing vessel to continue on its intended path.

This is grounded in the principles of the COLREGs, which emphasize that vessels must act to avoid collision and that the one with a greater maneuverability should take responsibility when the other is constrained in that capacity.