46 CFR 109.109: Responsibilities of master or person in charge.

(a) The master or person in charge shall—

(1) Ensure that the provisions of the Certificate of Inspection are adhered to; and

(2) Be fully cognizant of the provisions in the operating manual required by § 109.121.

(b) Nothing in this subpart shall be construed as limiting the master or person in charge, at his own responsibility, from diverting from the route prescribed in the Certificate of Inspection or taking such steps as he deems necessary and prudent to assist vessels in distress or for other emergency conditions.