A boat operating in a narrow channel must keep as safe as possible to which side?

When navigating a narrow channel, a boat should keep as safe as possible to the starboard side. This practice is influenced by the international rules of the road, which promote safe navigation and help prevent collisions between vessels. The starboard side is conventionally considered the right side of the boat when facing forward. By maintaining this positioning, vessel operators can allow for safe passing and minimize the risk of encountering other vessels head-on, especially in channels where space is limited.

The reason for adhering to the starboard side is primarily for consistency and safety. If all vessels keep to the starboard side, it creates a standardized flow of traffic, reducing confusion about which direction vessels are moving in the channel. This approach is essential for maintaining safe distances and providing clear sightlines, especially in areas where visibility may be compromised or where vessels are transiting closely together.