Which description best matches a vessel not in command?

Which description best matches a vessel not in command?

• A. The vessel is broken down or in distress
• B. The vessel is anchored
• C. The vessel is under way and steering properly
• D. The vessel is leaving a port

Answer: (A)

Not under command means a vessel cannot maneuver as required by the Rules due to an impairment or distress, so it cannot take the actions needed to keep clear of other vessels. The description that fits this is a vessel that is broken down or in distress, because it directly signals an inability to control speed or steer as required. An anchored vessel is stationary and can still take actions to avoid danger if needed, so it doesn’t inherently describe an inability to maneuver. A vessel underway and steering properly is able to maneuver and follow the Rules, so it is not not under command. Leaving a port describes movement, not the inability to maneuver.

Not under command means a vessel cannot maneuver as required by the Rules due to an impairment or distress, so it cannot take the actions needed to keep clear of other vessels. The description that fits this is a vessel that is broken down or in distress, because it directly signals an inability to control speed or steer as required. An anchored vessel is stationary and can still take actions to avoid danger if needed, so it doesn’t inherently describe an inability to maneuver. A vessel underway and steering properly is able to maneuver and follow the Rules, so it is not not under command. Leaving a port describes movement, not the inability to maneuver.