Should You Destroy Governor Hurst's Ship?

You will be prompted to choose between destroying Governor Hurst's ship or boarding it to get evidence during the Red Tape Runaround quest in Starfield. Learn about all the available choices, the consequences of each choice, and which choice is best!

All Governor Hurst Choices and Consequences

Blackmail, Destroy the Ship, or Present Evidence

This choice occurs during Red Tape Runaround, with Governor Hurst insisting that you simply destroy the ship. However, you can also board the vessel and gather more evidence and potentially get better rewards as well as loot if you kill the pirates.

Once you retrieve the evidence from the corpse on the ship, you have two additional options: hand over the evidence to CDR Vincent Woodward or blackmail Governor Hurst.

Red Tape Runaround Walkthrough

Should You Destroy Governor Hurst's Ship?

Blackmailing Hurst Nets Highest Reward But is Disliked by Companions

Bringing the evidence to Governor Hurst will result in you blackmailing him. He'll give you 12000 Credits and also return the package to give to Peter Brennan.

Take note that the four main companions will not like this option, so make sure to dismiss them or take Vasco during the mission if you plan on taking Hurst's bribe.

Destroy Hurst Ship to Finish the Quest Faster

If you want to complete the quest fast, simply destroy the ship and report back to Governor Hurst. Although the reward isn't that much, it's the fastest way to release Peter Brennan's package to complete the quest.

Hand Over Evidence to CDR Woodward

Bringing the evidence to CDR Woodward will result in Governor Hurst getting ousted and a 5000 Credits. He'll also retrieve the package, allowing you to return it to Peter Brennan to complete the quest.

This is arguably the "good ending" to the quest since it will result in him being replaced by a more honest governor.

Starfield Related Guides

Dialogue Choices and Consequences

All Choices and Consequences Guides