You are in charge of a 225-gross ton tug preparing to depart from Houston, Texas, with a loaded 2500-gross ton tank barge bound for New York. Prior to departure, regulations require that you __________.

Correct Answer: Option D — record the barge's load line and draft readings

USCG towing regulations and stability guidelines mandate that masters record barge load line marks and actual draft readings prior to departure to ensure proper trim, stability, and compliance with deadweight and load line limitations.