BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND Vessels I and II are underway as shown in illustration D033RR below. Vessel I is a sailing vessel with the wind dead aft. Vessel II is a power-driven vessel trawling. Which statement is TRUE?

Correct Answer: Option C — Vessel I is to keep clear because the other vessel is fishing.

Rule 18(a)(iii) requires a sailing vessel to keep out of the way of a vessel engaged in fishing. Even though the sailing vessel is under sail, the fishing vessel's operational status takes precedence in the hierarchy of responsibilities, overriding the general sailing vessel right-of-way rules.