🔍 Key Concepts

• Definition of power-driven vessel in Rule 3 of the Navigation Rules (COLREGS/Inland) • Difference between having machinery installed vs. machinery actually in use • Why the Rules care about what kind of vessel it is, not whether it is against/with the current or its speed

💭 Think About

• Look at the formal definition in Rule 3 – does it focus on speed, current, or the presence/use of machinery? • Ask yourself: if a ship’s engines are clutched out or on standby but ready, does it stop being a power-driven vessel? • Consider whether the Rules define vessels by how they move through the water (speed/current) or by how they are capable of being propelled.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify the exact wording of the definition of “power-driven vessel” in Rule 3 – pay attention to whether it says "in use" or something broader. • Check if current (with or against) is mentioned anywhere in that definition – if not, rule out options that depend on current. • Confirm whether the definition is about a vessel’s means of propulsion (machinery vs. sail vs. oars) rather than its actual movement or speed at the moment.