What side should a vessel travel down a channel or river?

The best practice for a vessel traveling down a channel or river is to keep to the starboard side (the right side when facing forward). This practice is primarily in line with the ColRegs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea), which promote safe navigation and help to reduce the risk of collision.

By adhering to the starboard side, vessels can effectively manage encounters with other watercraft, as it allows for predictable traffic flow. In many jurisdictions, including Queensland, it is common that vessels should keep to the right side when navigating inland waters. This convention enhances safety, as it means that vessels going in opposite directions are effectively passing each other on their port sides.

In contrast, traveling on the port side or down the middle of the channel may lead to confusion and increase the chances of collisions, hindering navigational safety. Choosing either side without a definitive convention could lead to inconsistency in vessel movements, making it difficult for mariners to anticipate the actions of others.