Question 4 ONC02 - Second Mate/Third Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is B A **Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver (RAM)** is defined in Rule 3(g) of both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the Inland Rules as a vessel which, from the nature of her work, is **unable to keep out of the way of another vessel**. Furthermore, Rule 18 (Responsibilities between vessels) specifically lists RAM vessels as having the highest priority over all other vessels listed (including towing, fishing, and sailing vessels) except for a Not Under Command (NUC) vessel or a vessel constrained by her draft (in international waters). This inability to maneuver is inherent to the definition and situation of the vessel. ### Why the other options are incorrect: **A) Vessel towing:** A vessel towing, while often hindered in her movement, is still generally required by Rule 16 (Action by give-way vessel) to take early and substantial action to keep out of the way of a stand-on vessel unless specifically designated as RAM. Rule 18 gives vessels towing priority over power-driven vessels, but not over sailing, fishing, or RAM vessels. Therefore, they are not universally "unable" to keep out of the way. **C) Vessel engaged in fishing:** A vessel engaged in fishing is required to keep out of the way of NUC and RAM vessels. While their nets or lines restrict their movement, they are still fundamentally defined as the "give-way" vessel to specific other categories and are expected to maneuver if possible. **D) Sailing vessel:** A sailing vessel is often the "stand-on" vessel against power-driven vessels (Rule 18(a)(iv)), but they are still the "give-way" vessel to NUC, RAM, and fishing vessels. A sailing vessel is highly maneuverable and is not defined as a vessel that is "unable" to keep out of the way of others.