What information must be included in a vessel's records?

The requirement to include course changes, significant weather conditions, and any incidents in a vessel's records is rooted in the necessity for a comprehensive historical account of all navigational and operational factors that could influence a vessel's safety and performance. Maintaining accurate logs that document these elements serves several key purposes.

First, recording course changes is crucial for understanding a vessel's navigational path and for evaluating its adherence to planned routes. This information is vital for assessing the vessel's performance and for post-incident analyses, where understanding the course taken can clarify how events unfolded.

Significant weather conditions are important to note because they can drastically affect a vessel's navigation and safety. Weather data helps in evaluating the conditions under which a vessel was operating at any given time, which is particularly critical if an accident occurs or if a complaint arises regarding operational conduct. Documenting these conditions also aids in risk management strategies for future voyages.

Furthermore, jotting down any incidents that occur is essential for maintaining safety protocols and improving operational procedures. Incidents could include accidents, mechanical failures, or other noteworthy events that could affect the vessel's operation or safety. This record of incidents is not only beneficial for internal reviews but may also be required by regulatory bodies for compliance purposes.

In summary, the breadth