Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter.

     (1) "Vessel" means every watercraft used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on the water, other than a seaplane.

     (2) "Owner" means a person who has a lawful right to possession of a vessel by purchase, exchange, gift, lease, inheritance, or legal action whether or not the vessel is subject to a security interest.

     (3) "Dealer" means a person, partnership, association, or corporation engaged in the business of selling vessels at wholesale or retail in this state.

     (4) "Department" means the department of licensing.

[1983 c 7 § 14.]