You are navigating through a narrow channel in a 180m bulk carrier. Describe your obligations under Rule 9 and the specific requirements regarding small vessels and sailing vessels.

A. Rule 9 requires you to keep as near to the starboard side of the channel as safe and practicable. A vessel less than 20m or a sailing vessel shall not impede a vessel that can only safely navigate within a narrow channel. A vessel shall not cross a narrow channel if doing so impedes a vessel that can only navigate safely within the channel. Overtaking in a narrow channel requires the vessel ahead to agree before the overtaking vessel begins the manoeuvre.

B. Rule 9 applies only to vessels over 100 metres. Smaller vessels are not restricted to the starboard side and may navigate freely in a narrow channel.

C. Rule 9 requires you to maintain maximum speed through the channel to minimise time in the restricted area. Slowing down increases interaction effects and is more dangerous.

D. Rule 9 gives priority to the vessel proceeding downstream over a vessel proceeding upstream. The upstream vessel must wait in a passing bay.

A. The tidal height at the time of transit to confirm sufficient under-keel clearance

B. The yacht's fuel consumption for that leg

C. The colour of the seabed shown on the chart

D. Only the distance to the next waypoint

A. Switch the ECDIS to standby mode and navigate by GPS position alone

B. Ignore it — ECDIS alarms are frequently false and can be left running

C. Assess the situation against the planned route and charted depths, take action to maintain safe water, and inform the Master if there is any doubt

D. Acknowledge and silence the alarm immediately so it does not distract the helmsman