Question 42 AB01 - Able Seafarer

The Correct Answer is C ### Explanation for C (A power-driven vessel) This categorization is based on the **International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs)**, specifically Rule 3, which defines vessels. Rule 3(b) defines a "power-driven vessel" as "any vessel propelled by machinery." When a vessel is propelled **both** by sail and by engines (even if the sails are up and providing propulsion), the use of the machinery immediately makes it fall under the definition of a power-driven vessel. Furthermore, under Rule 25(e), a vessel proceeding under sail when also being propelled by machinery **must** exhibit the lights and shapes of a power-driven vessel, effectively overriding its status as a sailing vessel for the purposes of collision avoidance (especially regarding its hierarchy and responsibility under the Rules). ### Explanation for Incorrect Options **A) The vessel is not covered under any category:** This is incorrect. All vessels, when operating on the water, are covered by the COLREGs and fall into defined categories for determining responsibility and required actions. **B) A "special circumstance" vessel:** This term is not a formal vessel category under COLREGs defining its propulsion or maneuverability. "Special circumstances" refers to situations where the strict application of the Rules might be impossible or dangerous (Rule 2), not a vessel type. **D) A sail vessel:** This is incorrect. A "sailing vessel" is defined (Rule 3(c)) as a vessel "under sail provided that propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being used." Since the engines are explicitly being used in this scenario, the vessel loses its status as a sailing vessel and assumes the status of a power-driven vessel.