What responsibility does the officer of the deck have during boarding parties?

The officer of the deck plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe and effective execution of orders on board a vessel, particularly during boarding operations. Their primary responsibility includes coordinating the boarding procedure, which involves overseeing the actions of the boarding party, ensuring that all safety protocols are followed, and communicating with the crew and any relevant parties.

This coordination is essential for the orderly and secure execution of boarding activities, which can involve multiple personnel and procedures. The officer of the deck must ensure that everyone understands their tasks, that equipment is ready and in place, and that the operation is conducted in line with established protocols and guidelines. This responsibility is vital for maintaining operational security and the safety of both the boarding team and the vessel.

The other options, while relevant to shipboard duties, do not specifically capture the critical function of the officer of the deck during boarding. Determining the number of personnel on board, saluting departing officers, or raising the national ensign do not adequately reflect the comprehensive coordination required during such activities.