Which vessel status indicates the vessel cannot maneuver as required?

• A. RAM (Restricted in Ability to Maneuver)
• B. Not under command
• C. Vessel constrained by draft
• D. At anchor

Answer: (B)

Not Under Command is the status that means the vessel cannot maneuver as required by the collision regulations due to an exceptional circumstance, such as a loss of steering or propulsion. When a vessel is not under command, others must treat it as unable to keep clear or alter course as needed and take early, substantial action to avoid collision.

This is different from the other situations: a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver (RAM) cannot maneuver as freely because of the nature of its work, but it may still move and maneuver to some extent; a vessel constrained by its draft is limited by depth in where it can go and how it can maneuver; a vessel at anchor is not moving and isn’t considered unable to maneuver to meet the Rules, it’s just stationary.