From this ruling it appears for hire boats must have "professional" trained crew members, The DM and crew member for the "day" is unacceptable.
What's really concerning is this ruling now sets precedent for all future and pending lawsuits. Not just with the CG but with civil suits. I also have to assume that crew members can now also be included, especially in civil suits. Scary stuff happening and the dive boat industry needs to take a really hard look at itself and address the issues presented by the court.
I also have to ask, will crew members holding an MMC be held to a "higher" standard than a non-licensed members?
Another concern, what about the tradition of 2 licensed capts. onboard, one not the official master of the vessel but performing as a crew member EXCEPT while the master is diving.
Bill, NOT trying to be funny, but your reference of going to the "head" is real according to the court. You better maintain a "pee" bottle and bed pan at the helm or on deck!
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