Final answer:
The term "right of way" in the Navigation Rules applies to a vessel that is downbound in a narrow channel with a following current, as per the 'narrow channel rule' in international maritime law.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is option d. In the Navigation Rules, the term "right of way" applies only to a vessel that is downbound in a narrow channel or fairway with a following current.
This scenario is reflective of the 'narrow channel rule' in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which dictates that a vessel going downstream with the current in a narrow channel has the right of way over a vessel going upstream.
This is partly because the vessel going downstream is more difficult to maneuver against the current.
In contrast, the rules for vessels being overtaken or overtaking others, or regarding crossing situations such as in the Gulf of Mexico, involve different considerations where the term "right of way" might not apply in the same fashion and are subject to the specific COLREGs pertaining to those situations.
The correct answer is option c. In the Navigation Rules, the term 'right of way' applies to a vessel crossing ahead of your vessel from right to left on the Gulf of Mexico. When two vessels are crossing, the vessel on the starboard (right) side has the right of way.
This means that it has the right to maintain its course and speed, while the other vessel must take action to avoid a collision.