A vessel that is adrift is typically:

A vessel that is adrift is defined as being free and not held in place by moorings or any other means. This condition suggests that the vessel is floating on the water without any anchoring, tethering, or securing mechanisms in place. Being adrift can occur due to a variety of reasons such as experiencing mechanical failure, weather conditions, or human error, leaving the vessel without control.

The other options illustrate scenarios that indicate a vessel is secure or undergoing operations. For example, being in a dry dock implies the vessel is out of the water for repairs or maintenance, secured to a buoy indicates that the vessel has been tied down and is stationary, and loading cargo means that the vessel is actively engaged in operations and securely moored at a dock or terminal. Therefore, recognizing "loose from moorings" as the situation of a vessel adrift is crucial for understanding navigational safety and best practices in maritime operations.