Final answer:
To maintain a safe distance at higher speeds, constant vigilance, slower speeds in tough conditions, and adherence to maritime regulations are crucial. Awareness of vessel dynamics, including acceleration and drag, assists in safe navigation.
Step-by-step explanation:
To maintain distance while operating a vessel at greater than "slow, no wake speed," it is essential to understand and apply principles such as the constant monitoring of the surroundings, the use of navigational equipment, and adherence to maritime laws and regulations.
When conditions are challenging, such as crests rushed past and black waves that are silent and hard to be seen in the darkness, increased vigilance and slower speeds could be required to navigate safely and maintain control. Furthermore, it is necessary to take into account the vessel's ability to accelerate and decelerate, particularly for large vessels like a barge where drag is relatively small at low speeds, revealing that small speeds are desirable to avoid collision with other objects, such as docks, and to ensure the safety of all on board.