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Navigation Watch on a Ship – Responsibilities, Checks, and Key Aspects

A navigation watch on a ship requires officers to have high qualifications and a deep understanding, especially of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG). Every watch officer must be able to recognize potential threats and take appropriate action to prevent them. Officers on the bridge play a key role in ensuring the safety of the vessel, its crew, and cargo.

Main Duties of the Officer on Watch

The officer on watch must be prepared to use the helm, engine, and sound signaling equipment without hesitation in case of danger. This is a critical aspect of preventing emergency situations.

Additionally, the watch officer is responsible for maintaining proper lookout in accordance with Rule 5 of COLREG 1972. They must stay vigilant to respond to potential threats and comply with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974.

Watch Hours on a Ship

Watch duties are typically divided between the three mates on board as follows:

  • Third Mate: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM
  • Second Mate: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 12:00 AM to 4:00 AM
  • Chief Mate: 4:00 AM to 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Each officer is expected to come on watch in advance to familiarize themselves with the current navigational situation, particularly at night, when it’s essential to allow time for their eyes to adjust to the visibility conditions.

Types of Watch Levels

Depending on the situation on board and surrounding conditions, the following watch levels are distinguished:

  • Minimal Watch (Level 1) – requires the minimum number of officers, typically under stable conditions.
  • Standard Watch (Level 2) – normal watch under standard sailing conditions.
  • Intensified Watch (Level 3) – used in complex conditions, such as near other vessels or in confined waters.
  • Maneuvering Watch (Level 4) – used during complex maneuvers such as docking.
  • Port Watch (Level 5) – required when the ship is in port.

Prohibited Activities on the Bridge

During the watch, there are strict rules on the bridge, and violations can lead to dangerous situations:

  • Mobile phones and other distractions are prohibited.
  • Leaving the bridge without a valid reason and without handing over control to another officer is not allowed.
  • Personal conversations and engaging in personal activities are strictly forbidden.
  • Alcohol or drug impairment is strictly prohibited.
  • Sitting on chairs is not recommended as it can reduce alertness.

Adhering to these bridge watch rules reduces the likelihood of maritime incidents, especially in challenging navigational conditions.

Key Sound Signals and Their Meaning

Sound signals play a crucial role in coordinating the actions of ships, especially in poor visibility or while maneuvering. Key sound signals that the officer on watch must know and apply:

  • Short blast (approximately 1 second): One blast means a right turn, two blasts mean a left turn, three blasts indicate a reverse motion.
  • Long blast (approximately 4-6 seconds): Used by a vessel in restricted visibility.
  • Combination of blasts: One long and two short blasts are used when maneuvering, and five short blasts warn of unclear or dangerous actions by another vessel.
  • Continuous signal: Given in emergency situations.

Responsibilities During Watch Changeover

When transferring watch, it’s important to ensure that the incoming officer is aware of all critical aspects of the current navigation situation and the ship’s condition. It’s crucial to avoid changing the watch while the ship is maneuvering to avoid a collision or altering course.

The following must be checked:

  • The incoming officer is aware of the captain’s orders, additional instructions, and navigation warnings.
  • All watch crew members are ready to perform their duties.
  • The incoming officer is informed of the ship’s position, course, speed, draft, and course plotted on the chart.
  • Current and forecasted tides, currents, weather, and visibility have been considered.
  • All navigation and emergency systems are functioning properly, including the gyroscopic and magnetic compasses, BNWAS (Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System) to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
  • The officer is aware of other vessels’ movements nearby and their potential impact on the ship.
  • The officer has taken note of shore lights, buoys, and other navigation signs identified in the ship’s vicinity.
  • Consideration of factors such as list, trim, and squat effects on the under-keel clearance.

Also, verify the functionality of:

  • Bridge equipment: telegraphs, RPM indicators, phones, GMDSS, clocks, and chronometers.
  • Functionality of general alarm signals and ship’s whistle.

Important Aspects During the Navigation Watch

Every officer on watch must:

  • Continuously monitor the navigational environment around the ship and avoid collision threats with other vessels.
  • Check the functionality of the navigation equipment and ensure it is working properly.
  • Keep track of other ships and prevent collisions.
  • Consider weather and sea conditions: tides, currents, visibility, and weather forecasts.
  • Follow the captain’s orders and navigation plan.

Conclusion

Navigational watch on a ship is a responsibility that requires high qualification, attention to detail, and discipline. Each officer must follow strict bridge conduct rules, use sound signals timely, perform regular equipment checks, and analyze the current navigational conditions. Only through coordinated teamwork can safe navigation and successful completion of the voyage be ensured.