What is the primary function of a lifeboat?

The primary function of a lifeboat is to provide safety during emergencies. Lifeboats are essential safety equipment on vessels, designed specifically to ensure the survival of the crew and passengers in the event of a maritime emergency, such as a sinking or fire. They are equipped to safely evacuate individuals from the main vessel and are often used in combination with safety drills to ensure that everyone on board knows how to use them effectively.

While lifeboats could theoretically be repurposed for activities such as fishing or transporting cargo, these are not their intended uses and do not represent their primary design or function. Also, although lifeboats may navigate through narrow channels, this is a secondary capability, primarily relevant during evacuation maneuvers. The focus of a lifeboat is its role in providing a means of escape and safety during critical situations at sea.