What is one of the rights of the captain regarding a passenger's goods?

The captain has the right to hold a passenger's goods as a means of securing payment for an unpaid fare or for maintenance costs associated with the transport of those goods. This legal principle is grounded in maritime law, which recognizes the authority of the captain to ensure that the interests of the vessel and its operation are protected. By holding onto goods until the outstanding charges are paid, the captain maintains leverage to enforce payment, reflecting the broader principle that service providers have the right to withhold goods as a form of lien.

The idea that a captain might need to assert control over a passenger’s belongings is rooted in the realities of maritime commerce, where vessels often operate under strict timelines and require prompt payment to continue functioning efficiently. This right balances the necessity of ensuring that the vessel is compensated for its services while also establishing a clear guideline on how disputes regarding payment can be managed.

In contrast, options that suggest selling the goods arbitrarily or requiring their return if fare is unpaid do not accurately reflect the authority fundamentally accorded to the captain in such situations, as these fail to consider the legal and operational context. Additionally, suggesting that a captain cannot hold goods at all overlooks the essential rights afforded to him/her to protect the interests of the voyage and ensure that the costs associated