Considering manning requirements for US flag vessels, your 2 watch cargo vessel has a deck crew of 20 people, exclusive of officers. How many of these people do the manning regulations require to be able seamen?

Correct Answer: Option B — 10

Under standard USCG deck department manning regulations in 46 CFR, conventional cargo vessels operating on a two-watch system require at least 50 percent of the deck crew, excluding licensed officers, to hold Able Seaman ratings, resulting in 10 out of 20.