Joe wrote:
No, training is the number two responsibility.. after the ship and
crew/ passengers..


Hmm, that makes it #3

You do not train in " grave danger" situation by letting a sub take
charge. They can learn more by watching. The risk is to high IMO in
"grave danger" situations.


Agreed... but it is possible... necessary IMHO... to 'bring
up' the crew & exec/mate in everyday situations, to *make*
the opportunities to train them, to observe them in lesser
situations and perhaps even fake an emergency or two...
besides, if the captain has a heart attack (or maybe if God
strikes him with lightning) then the exec/mate is going to
have to handle it the best he can.

Might as well get his skills polished up & get yourself used
to the idea.




A captain who drives himself into fatigue when his vessel is
in danger, after having ignored & denied others the chance
to become skilled in handing the vessel, is himself a hazard.


Agreed.

A Captain who does not command his vessel in times of danger is a
fool.


Agreed.

There are more ways to command one's vessel that to clench
the helm tightly in one's own hand.

DSK