Question 392 Rules of the Road

The correct answer is C. A vessel "constrained by her draft" is severely restricted in her ability to change her course because of her draft in relation to the available depth of water. The term "constrained by her draft" refers to a vessel that is restricted in her maneuverability due to the relationship between her draft and the available water depth. This is an international regulation outlined in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS). A vessel constrained by her draft is not defined by her length or the presence of a following current, as the other answer choices suggest. The term specifically applies to a vessel that is restricted in her ability to change course due to her draft.