Question:
With the MPAs now in effect here in Southern California, I would like a better definition of the word "vessel" specifically related to: "Vessels shall be allowed to transit through marine protected areas and marine managed areas with catch onboard. Fishing gear shall not be deployed in the water while transiting through a state marine reserve. Fishing gear, except legal fishing gear used to take species identified as allowed for take in subsection 632(b), shall not be deployed in the water while transiting through a state marine recreational management area, state marine park or state marine conservation area."

Does a "vessel" always have to have a motor or can it be a non-motorized kayak, canoe, row boat, float tube, etc.?

Answer:
Yes to all of the examples you present. A vessel under the circumstances you're asking about will be defined as any floating platform that a person can fish from. We even see people here in my local area actively fishing from their surfboards. By doing so, that surfboard is then considered a "vessel" when it is used in this manner as a fishing platform.