Question 1684 Deck General

The correct answer is D) The Master or Mate on watch. The reason is that when an autopilot is being used aboard small passenger vessels, the Master or Mate on watch is responsible for making or supervising the changeover from automatic to manual steering and vice versa. This is because the Master or Mate is the licensed officer in charge of the navigation and safe operation of the vessel, and they must maintain direct control and oversight of the steering system. The other answer choices are incorrect because a credentialed state or federal pilot, a certified quartermaster, or a qualified engineer do not have the primary responsibility for the vessel's navigation and steering system. The Master or Mate on watch is the appropriate person to make or supervise the autopilot changeover.