What must the captain do if he does not receive instructions in time?

The captain must seek alternative freight and protest if unsuccessful when he does not receive instructions in time. This approach is grounded in maritime law, emphasizing a captain's obligation to act prudently and ensure that the vessel's journey is productive, even in the absence of timely directions from the shipper or owner.

By seeking alternative freight, the captain can mitigate potential financial losses and ensure that the vessel's resources are utilized effectively. The requirement to protest is also important; it serves as a formal notification to the shipper that the captain acted out of necessity due to the lack of communication, thereby protecting the captain's interests and rights under the contract of carriage.

In contrast, waiting indefinitely for instructions would lead to delays and potentially higher costs and losses. Rerouting to a different destination without proper instruction could result in legal complications or claims of deviation from the agreed terms. Similarly, returning to port without cargo would also be an inefficient use of the vessel's operation and could incur significant expenses without fulfilling the contractual obligations. Thus, seeking alternative freight aligns with the principles of good seamanship and the duty of care expected from a captain.