Who holds the principal responsibility for the safety and proper operation of HSB craft and crew members?

The principal responsibility for the safety and proper operation of High-Speed Boat (HSB) craft and its crew members rests with the coxswain. The coxswain is in charge of the vessel's navigation, command decisions, and the overall wellbeing of the crew while aboard. This role includes ensuring that the craft operates within safe parameters, maintaining situational awareness, and accommodating any necessary operational directives or safety protocols during missions.

The coxswain must be well-versed in all aspects of the vessel’s operation and is ultimately responsible for making critical decisions in real-time situations that directly affect the safety of the crew and the integrity of the craft. This includes readiness for emergencies, the proper execution of maneuvers, and compliance with maritime regulations.

The navigator, while important in providing navigational support and planning, does not hold the singular responsibility for the craft’s overall operational safety. The Officer of the Deck is responsible for overseeing operations on the bridge but may not be directly involved in all aspects of craft management. Similarly, the Engineering Officer focuses on the mechanical and systems aspects of the vessel rather than its overall command and safety during operations. This hierarchical structure emphasizes the unique leadership role that the coxswain plays in ensuring the safety and effective