The Master of the Watch is responsible for the correct execution of the navigation watch and the officer in charge must comply at all times with the requirements of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974 and the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea 1972 (COLREG72). It is not sufficient to provide instruction, standing orders, night orders and other directions. The officer must monitor the officers aboard to ensure all regulations, procedures and Bridge resource management techniques are being carried out correctly. This essential navigation and record-keeping course explains the basic knowledge required for ship handling, while emphasising how essential skills are gained from study, observation and experience. You will also get to study the responsibilities of the Master of the Watch and chief officers on board in understanding the ship handling characteristics of the assigned vessel.

Moving on, the course dives into the basic obligations of the officer in charge of the navigational watch in line with the SOLAS 1974. You will learn about the need for the watchkeeper to station a person to steer the ship as well as having to put the steering into manual control in order to handle any potentially hazardous situation safely. You will understand the importance of detailed knowledge of COLREG72 for all watch officers at various levels as you will be taken through the implementation of its provisions. You will study the structure of the Collision Regulations designed to ensure that decisions are taken promptly when there is a risk of collision and explore the divisions of COLREG 72 into the respective parts and annexes.

There has been a rapid development of sophisticated navigational equipment including advances in RADAR capabilities. The accuracy and functionality of this equipment have increased considerably. This course illustrates the need for Officers of the Watch to have the proper certification for using such equipment. You will explore good navigation practices such as making regular checks,and instances when the Officer of the Watch must notify the Master when in doubt of the suitable course of action for the safety of the ship. You will learn about the procedures for turning over and taking over the Watch, along with how relieving duties should be carried out professionally. Finally, the course takes you through the process of record-keeping in navigational watches. You will explore the variety of records that are kept, especially the deck logbook and the types of entries made at sea. This in-depth course is ideal for kickstarting your career in Bridge navigational watches or if you simply have an interest in such maritime activities. So go ahead and register for this course today to begin your next learning journey!