During a shipboard fire, __ is in charge of the ship:

During a shipboard fire, the Vessel's Master is in charge of the ship. The Master is responsible for the overall safety of the vessel, its crew, and any passengers on board. This includes making critical decisions in emergencies, such as during a fire, where they must coordinate firefighting efforts, ensure the crew follows safety protocols, and communicate with external agencies if needed.

The authority of the Vessel's Master is recognized in maritime law, and they have the ultimate responsibility for the management of the vessel's operations during an emergency. Other organizations, such as the Coast Guard or the Navy, may provide assistance or resources, but they do not assume command of the ship during such incidents unless the situation escalates to a point requiring their intervention. Thus, the Master’s position as the highest authority on the vessel during a fire scenario makes this the correct choice.