Under what condition is a vessel considered "abandoned"?

A vessel is considered "abandoned" primarily when the ownership cannot be determined or when it poses a hazard to navigation. This classification is crucial for maritime safety and environmental protection because an abandoned vessel can create significant risks, not only for navigation but also for marine ecosystems.

The inability to determine ownership indicates that no party is taking responsibility for the vessel, which increases the likelihood that it may not be properly maintained or removed. When a vessel poses a hazard to navigation, it can lead to collisions, groundings, or other maritime accidents. In this context, regulatory bodies can intervene to address the situation, which underscores the importance of identifying and managing abandoned vessels effectively.

Regarding the other options, while docking without a permit or leaving a vessel unattended for a certain period might raise concerns, they do not automatically lead to a status of abandonment. Similarly, a vessel being non-operational does not necessarily mean it is abandoned if ownership can still be verified or if the owner intends to restore it. The distinction lies in the vessel's potential danger to navigation and the clarity of ownership.