The National Transportation Safety Board reported that the newly licensed junior third mate wasn't familiar with the route, the vessel's handling characteristics or the equipment on the vessel's bridge.
The third mate was on the bridge watch from midnight to 4 a.m.
NTSB Chairman Mark V. Rosenker says the "flawed decision-making in this accident created the potential for a catastrophic disaster."
On May 14, 2007, the 300-foot passenger vessel grounded on a charted rock at the intersection of Lynn Canal and Icy Strait in Southeastern Alaska, about 20 miles southwest of Juneau.
Passengers and crew members were evacuated safely without injuries.
The ship is operated by Majestic America Line.
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