What does a capacity plate indicate?

A capacity plate is a vital safety feature found on boats that provides critical information about the vessel's maximum safe load limit. This plate indicates the maximum number of people the boat can safely carry, as well as the maximum weight of passengers and gear. Knowing these limits helps ensure that a boat is not overloaded, which can significantly impact its stability, handling, and overall safety on the water. This information is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring a safe boating experience.

The other options do not represent the primary function of a capacity plate. Maximum speed capacity is determined by the boat's design and engine power, not indicated on the capacity plate. Recommended fuel type might be found in the owner's manual or on the fuel fill sticker but is not part of the capacity plate's specifications. Lastly, preferred maintenance schedules are also not relevant to the capacity plate, as they are typically provided in the owner's manual and relate to the upkeep of the boat rather than its load capabilities. Therefore, the capacity plate is crucial for understanding how much weight the vessel can safely handle, making option A the correct choice.