The American Consul has asked the Master of a vessel bound for a port in the U.S. to transport a destitute seaman back to the U.S. Which action may the Master take?

Correct Answer: Option C — He may refuse to take the seaman if the seaman has a contagious disease.

Under 46 U.S.C. 11104, a Master is generally required to transport destitute seamen at the request of a U.S. Consul. However, the Master is not required to accept a seaman who is suffering from a contagious disease, as this would pose an unacceptable health risk to the crew and vessel.