A boat captain oversees the crew and running of the boat, and may require a license. They must be knowledgeable in all aspects of operating a boat, including safety and security measures. They are responsible for the condition of the cargo and crew safety, and must make final decisions in emergency situations.
A boat captain is the head of the ship. He oversees the crew and the entire running of the boat. Captains may be required to have a license depending on the type of boat they are responsible for, such as a cruise ship or fishing vessel. Depending on the country, boat captains may be classified as “Senior” or “Master” and have the appropriate identification licensure. A boat captain performs practical tasks such as steering the ship, but also regularly uses problem-solving and planning skills.
Understanding weather conditions, waterways and the laws of the seas in international locations are the responsibilities of a boat captain. The captain must be knowledgeable in all aspects of operating a boat, even when delegating tasks to crew members. Delegating mostly to a first mate who reports to him, the boat captain cannot miss a single detail. He must be sure that the boat is under maintenance and is on course.
Planning and executing security strategies against possible threats, such as pirates or terrorists, is the captain’s responsibility. He must also take safety precautions against having stowaways or unauthorized passengers on board. Regularly inspecting the ship is something a boat captain does. Masters must ensure that the ship’s activities remain within the law in all respects; this includes the behavior of passengers and crew. Boat captains have authority over crew and passengers.
The captain is also responsible for the condition of the cargo. A boat’s cargo can be a non-perishable product such as textiles or perishable food items such as fresh seafood. A boat captain is responsible for selling cargo and maintaining records such as customs or immigration documents.
Crew safety is something the captain should always be focused on. He must ensure that government and other safety standards are maintained on board. Boat captains work with other ship personnel, such as a harbor pilot, to keep the ship on course and ensure that all signals, gauges and water depth measuring equipment remain in good working order. The ship must have life jackets, rescue boats and other suitable lifesaving equipment. Regular safety drills must be supervised by boat captains.
In the event of an accident or collision at sea, the captain of a boat must make the final decision on what to do. For example, if a crew member is seriously injured, the captain may decide to arrange for the individual’s air evacuation. If a certain choice is not possible, it is the captain’s duty to present the best option in each specific situation.
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