What is the maximum distance of the Territorial Sea from the baseline, in nautical miles?

What is the maximum distance of the Territorial Sea from the baseline, in nautical miles?

• A. 12 nautical miles
• B. 24 nautical miles
• C. 200 nautical miles
• D. High Seas

Answer: (A)

The Territorial Sea is the coastal state's sovereignty over waters extending from the baseline out to a fixed distance. The baseline is typically the low-water mark along the coast. The maximum distance for that zone is 12 nautical miles. Beyond this limit, other maritime zones come into play: a Contiguous Zone extends up to 24 nautical miles where the state can enforce laws related to customs, immigration, and sanitation; an Exclusive Economic Zone extends up to 200 nautical miles with rights to resources; and beyond all of these lies the High Seas. So, the furthest point that still lies within the Territorial Sea is 12 nautical miles.

The Territorial Sea is the coastal state's sovereignty over waters extending from the baseline out to a fixed distance. The baseline is typically the low-water mark along the coast. The maximum distance for that zone is 12 nautical miles. Beyond this limit, other maritime zones come into play: a Contiguous Zone extends up to 24 nautical miles where the state can enforce laws related to customs, immigration, and sanitation; an Exclusive Economic Zone extends up to 200 nautical miles with rights to resources; and beyond all of these lies the High Seas. So, the furthest point that still lies within the Territorial Sea is 12 nautical miles.