🔍 Key Concepts

• Master’s ultimate responsibility for the vessel and safety of operations • Pre-departure steering gear tests requirements for small passenger vessels under 46 CFR • Who may delegate tasks versus who must ensure they are done

💭 Think About

• Think about who is legally responsible for verifying critical safety systems before carrying passengers, not just who is technically able to operate or inspect them. • Among these choices, who has overall command and final accountability for the vessel’s seaworthiness before getting underway? • Consider which role is explicitly named in many regulations as having the duty to ensure required tests and checks are completed before sailing.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify who has overall command of the vessel among the choices. • Consider which position is most often cited in 46 CFR as responsible for pre‑departure safety checks. • Ask: if the test is not done or is done improperly, whose license and responsibility are on the line under USCG regulations?