What is a "vessel" as defined by Tennessee law?

The definition of a "vessel" according to Tennessee law encompasses any watercraft that is used or can be used as a means of transportation on water. This broad definition means that it includes a wide variety of watercraft, not limited to just recreational boats or commercial ships. It captures everything from small personal boats to larger commercial vessels, as long as they are designed for navigation on water. By defining "vessel" in this way, the law ensures that various types of watercraft, which might serve different purposes—such as fishing, leisure, or transportation of goods—are all included under the same regulatory framework. This comprehensive understanding is essential for ensuring safety and compliance for all types of watercraft users.