What is the maximum number of passengers that a single lifeboat can accommodate?

The design of lifeboats is primarily governed by international regulations, specifically the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention. According to these regulations, modern lifeboats are typically required to have a capacity that can safely accommodate a certain number of people in emergencies.

The maximum capacity of a single lifeboat, as stipulated, can be up to 150 passengers, depending on the specific design and size of the lifeboat. This is reflective of the need to ensure that in the event of an evacuation, a lifeboat can efficiently and safely transport a significant number of individuals, while also adhering to stability and safety concerns.

While options like 100, 200, or 250 passengers might seem reasonable at first glance, they exceed the standard capacities outlined in SOLAS for conventional lifeboats. Lifeboat designs prioritize both safety and efficiency, ensuring that each vessel can hold a maximum number of passengers without compromising the structural integrity or stability needed for safe operation in emergencies. Thus, the choice of 150 passengers as the maximum capacity aligns with established maritime safety regulations.