In the order of precedence for vessels, which comes after 'Not Under Command' (NUC)?

The order of precedence for vessels is essential for safe navigation and collision avoidance at sea. Understanding this hierarchy helps mariners know how to respond when encountering different types of vessels.

'Not Under Command' (NUC) vessels are recognized as having the highest level of priority because they cannot maneuver as required by the rules, making it critical for other vessels to avoid them. Following NUC in the order of precedence is a vessel with 'Restricted Ability to Maneuver' (RAM). This category includes vessels that, due to the nature of their work or the constraints they face, are unable to navigate safely, such as those engaged in laying pipelines or servicing navigational aids. Thus, vessels classified as RAM are next in line after NUC when considering their ability to navigate and the obligations of other vessels to yield.

For clarity, fishing vessels, sailing vessels, and pilot vessels each have their own specific rules, but they rank lower than NUC and RAM in terms of navigational priority. Therefore, recognizing RAM as the immediate successor to NUC follows the established maritime regulations that prioritize the safety and navigational needs of all vessels at sea.