Vessel

A ship, brig, sloop or other craft used in navigation. The word ls more comprehensive than "ship." The word "vessel" includes every description of water-craft or other artificial contrivances used, or capable of being used, as a means of transportation on water. Rev. St U. S. § 3 (U. S. Comp. St. 1901, p. 4). "Vessel," in the provision of the code of Louisiana that commercial partners are those who are engaged in "carrying personal property for hire in ships or other vessels," means any structure which is made to float upon the water, for purposes of commerce or war, whether impelled by wind, steam, or oars. Chaffe v. Ludeling, 27 La. Ann. 607.

— Foreign vessel. A vessel owned by residents m, or sailing under the flag of, a foreign nation. "Foreign vessel," under the embargo act of January, 1808, means a vessel under the flag of a foreign power, and not a vessel in which foreigners domiciled in the United States have an interest. The Sally, 1 Gail. 58, Fed. Cas. No. 12,257.

— Public vessel. One owned and used by a nation or government for its public service, whether in its navy, its revenue service, or otherwise.