Here is a typical narrow-channel situation. The cargo vessel is in a narrow channel and constrained by her draught. It will expect all other smaller vessels to keep well clear.
The vessel has a large turning circle and is slow to accelerate, decelerate, and stop. Actions have to be planned well ahead and may be irreversible once taken.
Visibility from the bridge is very limited. Prudent yacht skippers will keep well clear.
Imagine it is your boat that has a draught of 10 metres. Now look at the chart again. A wide expanse of water suddenly looks like a very narrow channel.