Who is solely responsible for the ship and all those embarked?

The Captain of the ship holds the ultimate authority and responsibility for everything that occurs on the vessel, including the safety and well-being of all personnel on board. This position is recognized in naval tradition and doctrine, where the Captain is regarded as the commanding officer, bearing the primary burden of accountability for decisions made aboard the ship. This includes navigation, operations, living conditions, and the conduct of all crew members.

In terms of leadership, the Captain provides the overarching direction and sets the tone for the ship's mission, ensuring that all protocols and regulations are followed. While other officers, such as the Executive Officer and the First Officer, play critical roles in carrying out the day-to-day operations and support the Captain in managing various departments and responsibilities, they ultimately report to the Captain and operate under their authority.

Understanding this hierarchical structure is essential, as it highlights the Captain's unique position at the helm of command, which is critical for effective and safe maritime operations.