Question 4 ONC04 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is B A **Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver (RAM)** is defined in Rule 3(g) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) as a vessel that, *from the nature of her work*, is unable to maneuver as required by the Rules and is therefore unable to keep out of the way of another vessel. This operational inability is inherent in the definition and is why she is afforded the highest priority (after a Not Under Command vessel) in the hierarchy of responsibilities defined in Rule 18. **Why the other options are incorrect:** A) **Vessel towing:** A vessel towing is generally a power-driven vessel and, unless restricted in her ability to maneuver (which would require different signaling), is required to keep out of the way of all vessels except a Vessel Not Under Command or a Vessel Restricted in Her Ability to Maneuver. She retains the ability to maneuver. C) **Vessel engaged in fishing:** A vessel engaged in fishing is *impeded* by her gear and is required to keep out of the way of vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in Her Ability to Maneuver, but she is required to keep out of the way of sailing vessels and power-driven vessels (Rule 18(d)(i)). She is not defined as *unable* to keep out of the way. D) **Sailing vessel:** A sailing vessel is generally privileged over a power-driven vessel but is required to keep out of the way of vessels Not Under Command, Restricted in Her Ability to Maneuver, and Engaged in Fishing (Rule 18(b)). She is capable of maneuvering and keeping out of the way of others as required by the Rules.