Rate this article:  

Table of contents

Gard Guidance Masters

2.14.2.4 TAKING OVER THE WATCH

The Master should instruct his/her officers to take over the watch only if

  • the vessel’s position has been verified, including the vessel’s intended course and speed
  • the traffic situation at the time of taking over the navigational watch has been properly assessed
  • the expected weather, tides, currents, visibility have been taken into account
  • any expected dangers of navigation during the forthcoming watch have been noted and precautionary measures taken
  • the status of all bridge equipment including the settings of the bridge and engine controls have been verified
  • the Master’s written orders are fully understood and acknowledged
  • appropriate instructions have been given to the other members of the navigational watch.