Could the crew have saved passengers from the boat fire?

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The Crew's Ability to Save Passengers Remains Uncertain Amidst Smoke Inhalation Findings

The possibility of the crew saving passengers from the dive boat fire remains uncertain, with preliminary findings suggesting the 34 victims likely succumbed to smoke inhalation. These victims may have already been deceased before the flames engulfed their sleeping quarters. The five surviving crew members reported that the fire's intensity prevented them from reaching the passengers in the below-deck bunk area.
Cause of Death Likely Smoke Inhalation

A coroner's pathologist is convinced that smoke inhalation was the primary cause of death for the 34 individuals aboard the Conception dive boat. This determination is considered preliminary, pending the results of toxicology tests. The victims were found after the 75-foot vessel caught fire and sank off the California coast on Monday.
Crew's Escape Route Blocked by Flames

The five surviving crew members, who were on deck when the fire erupted around 3:15 a.m., informed investigators that the flames made it impossible to descend a narrow ladder into the bunk room or access the passengers through a window. This account suggests that by the time the crew was alerted to the blaze, the conditions may have already been too severe for rescue.
Safety Issues Identified by Investigators

Investigators have reportedly uncovered safety deficiencies on the Conception. Notably, there was a lack of a night watchman, a role stipulated by the boat's inspection certificate. This position is typically assigned to be on duty while the rest of the crew and passengers are sleeping, raising questions about the initial detection and response to the fire.

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Could the crew have saved passengers from the boat fire?

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