Which vessel is, by definition, unable to keep out of the way of another vessel?

• A. Vessel underway
• B. Vessel engaged in fishing
• C. Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver
• D. Vessel at anchor

Answer: (C)

A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver is defined as one that cannot easily alter her course or speed to keep out of the way of other vessels. Because her movements are constrained by the nature of her work, other vessels must take early and clear action to avoid her, instead of relying on her to avoid them. This protection allows critical operations—like dredging, underwater work, or other restricted tasks—to proceed safely without requiring impossible or hazardous evasive actions.

This is why the vessel with restricted maneuverability is the best answer: the definition explicitly identifies a vessel that cannot keep out of the way, so other traffic must yield. The other options describe vessels that can typically maneuver or are stationary for reasons not tied to a formal restriction on maneuverability, and thus do not carry that same obligation by definition.