Under what circumstances may a coxswain leave a vessel?

A coxswain may leave a vessel when the operational benefits of doing so outweigh the risks involved. This decision is fundamentally based on ensuring the safety of the crew and the mission at hand. In certain situations, it might be necessary to abandon the vessel if conditions become excessively hazardous, if the vessel is unmanageable, or if remaining on board poses a greater risk than leaving.

For instance, in emergencies where the safety of the crew is at risk due to extreme weather conditions, mechanical failure, or other critical factors, abandoning the vessel might be the most prudent course of action. The coxswain must assess the circumstances and make a judgment call that prioritizes safety while considering the mission and operational context.

While other circumstances mentioned might seem relevant, they do not provide the same level of clarity or direct relation to the decision-making process of the coxswain in potentially hazardous situations. Leaving a vessel solely due to a Coast Guard warning, a fuel shortage, or malfunctions would typically not justify abandoning the vessel unless it is also determined that the risks of remaining outweigh those of leaving. The emphasis lies on evaluating the risk versus benefit in an operational context for the safety of all involved.