USCG Exam PracticeRule 3 — General Definitions
Under the Inland Navigation Rules, which of the following correctly distinguishes a 'vessel not under command' from a 'vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver'?
- A. A vessel not under command is unable to maneuver due to the nature of her work; a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver is unable to maneuver due to an exceptional circumstance
- ✓ A vessel not under command is unable to maneuver due to some exceptional circumstance; a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver is unable to keep out of the way due to the nature of her workCorrect
- C. Both terms describe the same condition but apply to different vessel types
- D. A vessel not under command has lost steering; a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver has lost propulsion
Why B is correct
33 CFR §83.03(f) defines 'vessel not under command' as one unable to maneuver as required by the Rules through some exceptional circumstance. 33 CFR §83.03(g) defines 'vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver' as one restricted from the nature of her work. The distinction turns on exceptional circumstance versus the inherent nature of the vessel's operations.