What distance defines the Territorial Seas from the Baseline?

• A. 0 to 3 NM from Baseline
• B. 12 nautical miles from Baseline
• C. 24 NM from Baseline
• D. 200 NM from Baseline

Answer: (B)

The distance defining the Territorial Sea is twelve nautical miles from the baseline. This belt from the baseline outward is where the coastal state has sovereignty over the waters, air space, and seabed, subject to the right of innocent passage for foreign ships. Beyond this zone lie the Contiguous Zone (up to twenty-four nautical miles) and the Exclusive Economic Zone (up to two hundred nautical miles), which cover different rights and freedoms.