Which of the following best describes objects included in the term 'vessel' under the Rules?

• A. Non-self-propelled rafts, seaplanes, and hovercrafts
• B. Submarines
• C. Buoys
• D. Sailboats

Answer: (A)

A vessel is any watercraft or other artificial contrivance that is used, or capable of being used, as a means of transportation on water. That broad idea includes craft that move on the water surface even if they aren’t powered in the usual way, and even some unusual vehicles designed to operate on water. Non-self-propelled rafts fit because they convey people or goods across water. Hovercrafts fit because they travel on the water surface and are used to transport. Seaplanes are included here because, when on the water and used to transport people or cargo, they function as a means of transportation on water under the rules’ broad wording. The other options describe objects that aren’t used as transport on water (for example, buoys are markers, not conveyances).