🔍 Key Concepts

• Master’s ultimate responsibility for the vessel’s safety under U.S. and international law • The role of a Pilot – why a Pilot is carried and what special knowledge he provides • Difference between having the conn and overall command of the ship

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: Does taking the conn transfer legal responsibility for the vessel’s safety away from the Master, or just the immediate ship‑handling orders? • Which person has continuous, non‑delegable responsibility for the safety of the ship, crew, cargo, and environment, regardless of who is physically giving helm and engine orders? • Why do ports require Pilots on large ships – is it to replace the Master’s authority, or to advise and assist with local knowledge?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify who is always legally responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel under common maritime practice and regulations. • Check whether a Pilot’s role is advisory with local knowledge or a full transfer of command from the Master. • Make sure you separate the concepts of ‘having the conn’ (controlling maneuvers) and ‘command of the ship’ (overall responsibility and authority).