Which lien against a vessel would be settled FIRST?

Correct Answer: Option A — Salvage lien

Under maritime law, liens are ranked by priority. A salvage lien is considered a 'super-priority' lien because the salvor preserved the vessel from loss. It ranks higher than contractual liens like vessel mortgages or ship repairer's liens, as the salvage service directly benefits all other lienholders by saving the collateral.