According to the CFR, who must meet the pilot when they come aboard?

The requirement for a licensed deck officer and one other crew member to meet the pilot when they come aboard is rooted in maritime safety protocols established in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). This procedure ensures that there is a qualified individual on board who can communicate effectively regarding the navigation, operational procedures, and safety of the vessel, as well as another crew member to assist.

Meeting the pilot is a critical moment in a vessel's operation, particularly when entering or departing from ports where expert local knowledge is essential for safe navigation. The licensed deck officer typically has training and authority that allow them to engage directly with the pilot, discussing navigation plans and understanding the vessel's handling characteristics, conditions at sea, and local maritime rules. The presence of another crew member helps to facilitate communication and manage any immediate operational tasks that may arise during the pilot's boarding process.

Other combinations, such as involving the captain, chief engineer, first mate, or lookout, do not align with the CFR stipulations. While these roles are indeed significant on a vessel, the CFR specifically outlines the requirement for a licensed deck officer and an additional crew member to ensure that there is both navigation expertise and operational support readily available during this critical phase of voyage preparation.