What is the distance from the coast where a vessel can be classified as hovering?

The classification of a vessel as "hovering" is typically determined by its distance from the coast, which indicates its operations and proximity to shore. In maritime terms, hovering refers to a vessel maintaining a stationary position relative to the seabed, often for activities like search and rescue, environmental monitoring, or law enforcement operations.

The distance of 15 nautical miles (NM) from the coast is significant as it marks a boundary where vessels can effectively conduct such tasks, ensuring they are still within a manageable range for access to port services, support, and emergency assistance. This distance is also within the jurisdiction of many coastal regulations, making it a practical threshold for law enforcement and other operational purposes.

Longer distances like 25 NM or 50 NM may limit the effectiveness of responding to emergencies or make logistical support more challenging, while a distance of 10 NM might be too restrictive for certain operations. Thus, the 15 NM distance serves as a balanced and effective range for classifying a vessel as hovering.