Question 5 ONC02 - Second Mate/Third Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is C **Explanation for Option C (Correct):** The definition of a "vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver" (RAM) is explicitly laid out in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Rule 3(g). This rule defines a RAM vessel as one that, **from the nature of her work**, is unable to keep out of the way of another vessel. Examples include vessels engaged in dredging, surveying, submarine cable laying, replenishment, launching or recovery of aircraft, or mine clearance operations. Their inability to maneuver safely or keep clear is a direct result of the specific operational tasks they are performing. **Explanation for Option A (Incorrect):** "Her draft" describes a vessel "constrained by her draft" (CBD). While a CBD vessel is also granted special privileges under COLREGs (Rule 18(d)), it is a separate classification from a vessel "restricted in her ability to maneuver." A CBD vessel's inability to deviate is due to the relationship between her draft and the available depth and width of navigable water, not the nature of her operational work. **Explanation for Option B (Incorrect):** "Some exceptional circumstances" is too broad and does not correspond to the specific definition provided in the rules. While some circumstances might temporarily limit a vessel's ability to maneuver (like heavy weather or equipment failure), the COLREGs define such vessels as "not under command" (NUC) if they cannot comply with the rules due to some exceptional circumstance. The definition of RAM specifically ties the limitation to the continuous, planned nature of the work. **Explanation for Option D (Incorrect):** "A danger of navigation" is a factor that dictates prudent seamanship and watchkeeping (COLREGs Rule 5), but it is not the defining criterion for being classified as "restricted in her ability to maneuver." All vessels must navigate with respect to dangers; a RAM vessel's inability to move is tied to her ongoing specific task, not simply the presence of a generalized hazard.