Who designates and empowers the Command Duty Officer (CDO)?

The designation and empowerment of the Command Duty Officer (CDO) is the responsibility of the captain. This position is crucial as the CDO acts on behalf of the captain when the captain is not present, making decisions and ensuring the safety and efficiency of operations. The authority bestowed upon the CDO comes directly from the captain, highlighting the captain’s role in establishing command structure and clear accountability within the organization.

The captain's role in this scenario is vital because they possess the ultimate oversight and decision-making authority on board, ensuring that the CDO can effectively fulfill their duties with the necessary support and trust from the captain. This delegation of authority helps maintain operational integrity and facilitates effective management during critical situations.