What defines a ship in the context of maritime law?

In the context of maritime law, a ship is defined as a vessel designed for seagoing or inland navigation, particularly in the context of international voyages. This definition emphasizes the purpose of the vessel: a ship is specifically intended to operate on water, capable of navigating beyond harbor limits, which typically involves rules and regulations established for international travel at sea.

By focusing on the characteristics of a ship—its design, construction, and intended use for navigation on international waters—this definition is aligned with legal interpretations and regulations that govern maritime activities, including safety standards, environmental considerations, and liability issues that arise during voyages.

The other options describe items related to maritime activities but do not encapsulate what constitutes a ship. For instance, a vessel used for fishing is limited in function, and a cargo container serves merely as a means of storing and moving goods rather than as a vessel itself. A dock or harbor facility pertains to land-based infrastructure supporting maritime operations but is not a vessel in navigation.