What action should be taken if the ship needs to suspend boat operations?

When there is a need to suspend boat operations, it is crucial to follow the proper chain of command and procedures in place to ensure safety and efficiency. Contacting the Command Duty Officer (CDO) for a recommendation is the best course of action because the CDO has the authority and responsibility to make decisions regarding operations, including suspending boat activities. They will have the situational awareness and knowledge necessary to determine the best response based on the current circumstances and any potential risks.

This approach also ensures that the decision made is consistent with the overall command's intent and is communicated effectively to all required parties. The CDO can provide guidance on how to manage the situation, ensuring safety protocols are followed and that all crew members are informed of the changes to operations.

In contrast, other options, such as sounding the boat gongs immediately or notifying all personnel to disembark, may lead to confusion or unintended safety risks without proper authorization. Ceasing communication altogether with the crew would create a lack of clarity and could worsen the situation, making it imperative to maintain communication with the team while coordinating any operational changes with the CDO.