Maritime Expert Witness | USCG Master

Specialties & Experience of this Expert Witness

Additional Information

Eric Watson Master Mariner | Maritime Operations, Safety & Passenger Vessel Expert Captain Eric Watson is a U.S. Coast Guard–licensed Master with more than 24 years of command and maritime operations experience aboard passenger vessels, small cruise ships, offshore supply vessels, charter vessels, sailing vessels, motor yachts, and private vessels up to 280 feet. He has logged more than 300,000 nautical miles and has served in command roles involving inland, near coastal, offshore, and ocean operations. Captain Watson has served as Captain on U.S.-flag passenger vessels operating under USCG Subchapter K and Subchapter T, with direct responsibility for vessel safety, regulatory compliance, navigation, crew management, emergency response, passenger safety, vessel inspections, and operational decision-making. His experience includes high-visibility guest service environments where safety, seamanship, regulatory compliance, and risk management are critical. His areas of expert analysis include: Passenger vessel operations Cruise ship and small passenger vessel operations Charter vessel operations Yacht and private vessel operations Maritime safety and seamanship Captain/operator standard of care USCG regulatory compliance Subchapter K and Subchapter T operations Safety Management Systems Bridge resource management Navigation and collision avoidance Voyage planning and weather-related decision-making Crew training, supervision, and operational readiness Passenger and crew safety Emergency response and medical-access decision-making at sea Vessel policies, procedures, inspections, and industry standards Marine casualty and accident analysis Captain Watson’s background includes command and operational experience across a wide range of vessel types, including cruise ships, offshore supply vessels, DP1/DP2 vessels, tall ships, charter boats, sailing yachts, motor yachts, and private vessels. He has managed crew performance, vessel safety programs, regulatory compliance, accident response, operational risk, and complex voyage planning in demanding maritime environments. As Principal of Watson Maritime Consulting, LLC, Captain Watson provides independent expert witness services, maritime safety analysis, accident and incident review, regulatory compliance consulting, and operational advisory services. His opinions are grounded in real-world command experience, professional maritime practice, applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulations, recognized industry standards, and practical seamanship.