Definition of a roadstead in harbour terminology: which statement best describes a roadstead used by vessels near a coast?

Introduction / Context:
A roadstead is an anchorage outside or inside a harbour where ships can lie at anchor, often sheltered by natural features or artificial works. It is vital for waiting, lighterage, and weathering before entering a harbour proper.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Serves as a relatively calm water area for safe anchorage and manoeuvring.
• Protection may be partial (open roadstead) or enhanced by breakwaters (closed roadstead).
• Used operationally as a holding area for vessels.

Concept / Approach:
The essential definition focuses on protected navigable water suitable for anchorage and movement, not a terrestrial “road ending.” While some roadsteads are improved by breakwaters, the defining feature is the protected water area itself.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Select the statement emphasizing a protected water area for safe vessel movement.Recognize that breakwaters may or may not be present; they are not essential to the definition.Reject the “end of the road” option as irrelevant to maritime terminology.

Verification / Alternative check:
Nautical glossaries define “roadstead” as a sheltered offshore anchorage area.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• “End of the road” misinterprets the maritime term.
• “May be protected by breakwater walls” is true for some cases, but it does not fully define a roadstead; the more general correct definition is option A.

Common Pitfalls:

• Assuming a roadstead must always be breakwater-protected; many are naturally sheltered.

Final Answer:
is a protected area of water where boats can move safely