Cal. Harb. and Nav. Code § 803 : CALIFORNIA HARBORS AND NAVIGATION CODE — MASTERS, CREWS AND CARGOES — SHIP MASTERS AND CARGOES — Power to enforce obedience of mate and seamen

The master of a vessel may enforce the obedience of the mate and seamen to his lawful commands by confinement and other reasonable corporal punishment; but the master is responsible for the abuse of his power.