Understanding the Term 'Vessel Not Under Command' based on Navigation Rules
What is a 'vessel not under command' according to Navigation Rules?
A. is moored, aground or anchored in a fairway
B. through some exceptional circumstance is unable to maneuver as required by the rules
C. by taking action contrary to the rules has created a special circumstance situation
D. from the nature of her work is unable to keep out of the way of another vessel
Answer:
'Vessel not under command' based on the NAVIGATION RULES is a ship that due to uncommon circumstances is unable to maneuver as required by navigation rules.
The NAVIGATION RULES, or the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, define the term 'vessel not under command' as a ship that through some uncommon situation is unable to maneuver as necessitated by the rules. This generally means her ability to steer and move around other vessels is impeded due to special circumstances, making her unable to properly obey navigation rules.
It's crucial to understand that this term does not refer to a vessel that is anchored, aground, or moored in a fairway, or a vessel that has taken action against the rules to create a special circumstance, or a vessel unable to get out of the way of another due to the nature of her work.