What must a vessel owner ensure before allowing others to operate their vessel?

A vessel owner has a significant responsibility to ensure that anyone they allow to operate their boat understands how to do so safely. This includes knowledge of operation techniques, safety protocols, and navigation rules. Safe operation directly correlates with the ability to avoid accidents and hazards on the water, which is critical for the safety of the operator, passengers, and others on the water.

While having a license to operate a boat might be necessary in certain jurisdictions, the focus on safety encompasses a broader understanding of how to handle the vessel under various conditions. Additionally, swimming ability and familiarity with the route, while useful skills, do not directly impact the safe operation of the vessel in the way that understanding its handling and safety does. As such, the most crucial prerequisite for anyone operating the vessel is their knowledge and competence in operating it safely.