Which vessels may not impede passage in a narrow channel?

• A. Sailing, less than 20 meters, crossing, and fishing
• B. Sailing, crossing, and fishing
• C. Sailing, less than 20 meters, crossing, and fishing
• D. Sailing, less than 20 meters, passing, and fishing

Answer: (A)

In a narrow channel, vessels that have limited maneuverability or special operations are the ones that may not be impeded by others. Sailing vessels, vessels under 20 meters in length, vessels crossing the channel, and fishing vessels all fit this category. They typically cannot quickly alter course or stop, and their movements are more constrained, so other vessels are expected to give them room rather than try to force them to yield.

So the best choice is the one that includes all four of these types—sailing, less than 20 meters, crossing, and fishing—because it aligns with the rule that these particular vessels may not impede passage in a narrow channel. Removing any one of these categories would omit a vessel type that also requires that consideration, which is why that option isn’t as correct.