What is the function of a lifeboat on board a ship?

The function of a lifeboat on board a ship is primarily to provide emergency evacuation for crew and passengers in case of a sinking. Lifeboats are specifically designed for this purpose, ensuring the safety of individuals during emergencies at sea. They are equipped to carry a certain number of people and are often stocked with essential survival equipment, including food, water, and signaling devices.

In the context of a maritime emergency, lifeboats become crucial as they enable a swift and effective means of evacuating individuals from a distressed vessel to safety. This is a vital aspect of maritime safety protocols, reinforcing the importance of lifeboats as life-saving equipment on board ships. Other options such as transporting passengers between ships or serving as fishing vessels do not align with the primary lifesaving purpose of a lifeboat, while the storage of life jackets and marine supplies is typically a function associated with survival craft, rather than the lifeboats themselves.