46 CFR §122.304

1. (a)The movement of a vessel shall be under the direction and control of the master or a licensed mate at all times. The master shall operate the vessel keeping the safety of the passengers and crew foremost in mind by directing the vessel in order to prevent a casualty. Special attention should be paid to:
   1. (1)The current(s) velocity and direction of the transmitting area;
   2. (2)Tidal state;
   3. (3)Prevailing and forecasted visibility and environmental conditions, including wind and waves;
   4. (4)Density of marine traffic;
   5. (5)Potential damage caused by own wake;
   6. (6)The danger of each closing visual or radar contact;
   7. (7)Vessel's handling characteristics; and
   8. (8)Magnetic variation and deviation errors of the compass.
2. (b)[Reserved]