What is the responsibility of the operator in regard to passengers?

The operator of a boat has a crucial responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers. This includes briefing them on safety procedures before the journey begins. This briefing typically covers important information such as how to properly wear a life jacket, what to do in case of an emergency, and how to behave while on the vessel to ensure everyone's safety.

Ensuring that passengers are informed about safety procedures is fundamental in preventing accidents or injuries while boating. An informed passenger is more likely to understand the risks associated with boating and can take appropriate action if needed.

Regarding the other options, allowing passengers to do as they please can lead to unsafe situations. Passengers need guidance to ensure that their actions do not compromise their safety or that of others on board. Letting passengers handle the steering without proper training and supervision is also unsafe, as operating a boat requires skills and knowledge about navigation and safety regulations. Lastly, while requiring passengers to wear life jackets is important, it is not sufficient on its own without an overall briefing on safety procedures. Therefore, the emphasis on briefing ensures a comprehensive approach to passenger safety.