Question 230General Subjects - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is A) within the normal routine of vessel's operation. This is because the assessment of a trainee's practical demonstration of skills should be conducted during the normal operation of the vessel, rather than at an arbitrary time or only when the trainee first arrives onboard. This allows the assessor to evaluate the trainee's performance in a realistic setting, reflecting the actual conditions and responsibilities they would face during the normal course of their duties. The other options, such as conducting the assessment at any time or only during the first few days, would not provide an accurate representation of the trainee's skills and abilities in the context of the vessel's regular operations.