What is considered a VESSEL?

A vessel is defined broadly in maritime law to include a variety of watercraft used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water. This encompasses not only traditional boats and ships but also various forms of smaller craft, personal watercraft, barges, and even floating structures such as platforms.

The correct choice acknowledges this comprehensive definition, affirmatively stating that it includes every description of watercraft. This understanding is essential for anyone operating or managing vessels, as it applies to regulations, safety requirements, and legal responsibilities associated with operating any type of vessel on navigable waters.

In contrast, the other choices limit the definition unnecessarily. Restricting it only to boats and ships or to displacement craft excludes numerous watercraft types that are legally classified as vessels. Additionally, specifying only ships and submarines ignores the wide range of other vessels that also constitute part of maritime traffic. Thus, the inclusiveness of the correct answer reflects the legal and operational realities of what constitutes a vessel.