Which status indicates the vessel is restricted in ability to maneuver due to external factors?

• A. Constrained by Drift
• B. Not Under Command
• C. Sailing
• D. Restricted Ability to Maneuver

Answer: (D)

The situation being described is a vessel whose ability to maneuver is restricted by external factors. This status is used when ongoing work or operations—such as towing, dredging, underwater work, or other external activities—limits the vessel’s capacity to steer or stop as needed. Because of these external limitations, other vessels must keep well clear and anticipate slower or less controllable movement, giving extra space and time to avoid collision.

This is different from not under command, which means the vessel cannot maneuver at all due to its own condition or failure, not because of external work. It’s also not a standard sailing status, and the term “Constrained by Drift” isn’t a recognized official classification.