Who is responsible for developing the docking plan?

• A. Docking conference
• B. Captain
• C. Port Authority
• D. Engineering Officer

Answer: (D)

Developing the docking plan hinges on understanding the ship’s machinery, ballast, and structural limits. The Engineering Officer is the one who knows the vessel’s propulsion and power systems, ballast requirements, piping and hull stresses, and how these elements will be affected during approach, alignment, and cradle placement in dry dock. This role coordinates the securing and isolation of equipment, adjusts ballast and trim, and outlines the sequence for safe mooring and dewatering, ensuring the ship can be safely supported and maintained without compromising stability or safety. The Captain has overall command, but the detailed, technical plan is prepared by the Engineering Officer. A Docking Conference is a coordination event rather than a single responsible person, and Port Authority involvement is about authorization and external coordination, not drafting the ship’s internal docking plan.