Vessel

A waterborne craft or other structure used, or capable of being used, as a means of transport on water.

In the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, the term includes every description of water craft, non-displacement craft, wing-in-ground craft and seaplanes used or capable of being used for transportation on water.

The exact legal definition can vary between conventions and national legislation. For navigation, lights, shapes and right-of-way obligations, the applicable rule set and the vessel’s current status—such as sailing, power-driven, fishing or restricted in ability to manoeuvre—must be identified.