What is the minimum number of passengers on a commercial vessel before it must have a lifeboat?

The requirement for a lifeboat on a commercial vessel is based on the number of passengers it carries. According to the U.S. Coast Guard regulations, a commercial vessel must carry a lifeboat if it is capable of carrying more than 12 passengers. Specifically, if a vessel has 30 or more passengers, it is mandated to have lifeboats or equivalent means of rescue for safety reasons. This requirement is meant to ensure adequate safety measures in the event of an emergency, allowing for the safe evacuation of all passengers onboard.

The choice indicating 30 as the minimum aligns with these regulations, emphasizing the importance of having sufficient lifesaving equipment as the number of passengers increases.