Which item is NOT required to be carried on vessels, according to general regulations?

The choice indicating that a proper anchor is not required to be carried on vessels aligns with general boating regulations. While having an anchor can be beneficial for various boating scenarios, such as securing the vessel in place or preventing drifting, it is not mandated as an essential safety item for all types of boats. The primary focus of required equipment is safety and navigational aids, which are critical for ensuring the well-being of passengers and the vessel.

In contrast, items like oars, a bailing bucket, and visual distress signals are typically required because they directly contribute to safety during emergencies. Oars can provide a means of propulsion if the engine fails, a bailing bucket can be used to remove water that might enter the vessel, and visual distress signals are necessary for alerting others for help in case of emergencies. Therefore, while an anchor is helpful, it is not classified as a mandatory item on all vessels, making it the correct answer in this context.