On a cabin boat boarding, how many people must remain on a CG boat?

• A. One
• B. Two
• C. Three
• D. None

Answer: (B)

During a cabin boat boarding, a dedicated small crew must remain on the Coast Guard boat to maintain command and control of the operation. This team keeps essential duties covered: they handle communications with the boarding team and with other assets, maintain the ability to maneuver or reposition the CG boat if the situation changes, and be ready to provide immediate assistance or medical aid if needed. Keeping at least this minimal presence on the CG boat ensures the operation stays safe and coordinated; leaving the CG vessel unmanned would jeopardize safety and response capability, while placing too many people on the CG boat would unnecessarily deprive the boarding team of manpower. So, the standard practice is to leave a pair of crew members on the CG boat to supervise and support the operation.