Calling the Master is one of the most critical responsibilities for any Officer On Watch (OOW).
You always have the authority to alert the captain if something unusual happens or if you’re uncertain about any situation.
This won’t make you look incompetent. In fact, it strengthens the captain’s trust that you’ll alert him before a dangerous situation develops.
But when exactly should you reach out to him and summon him on the bridge for assistance?
Events on When to Call the Master
While the captain expects you to fulfill your duties based on your job description, situations onboard can be highly dynamic.
Existing rules or guidelines may not clearly define some scenarios.
If you’re unsure what to do or have doubts about your actions, don’t hesitate to call the Master.
Here are some key events when to notify him in general:
General Circumstances
1. At any time, there is doubt.
2. If the standing orders cannot be maintained.
3. Whenever the vessel’s condition is in jeopardy.
4. In any other situation, as outlined in the Master’s Bridge Standing Order.
5. In any other situation outlined in the Master’s Night Order Book.
Equipment Related
6. If ANY equipment (machinery, electronics) fails or is not functioning properly.
7. If any of the communications or GMDSS radio equipment malfunctions.
8. When any navigational equipment fails or if any doubt exists concerning the accuracy of such equipment.
9. If engine speed is reduced.
10. On the breakdown of the engines, steering gear, or any essential navigational equipment.
Navigation Related
11. The vessel encounters ice where continual major course changes are needed to avoid contact.
12. If you see signs of distress at sea, such as lifejackets, EPIRBs, life rings, life rafts, survival suits, etc.
13. Upon encountering navigational hazards such as rocks, icebergs, or shipwrecks.
14. When encountering any suspicious floating object in an affected area.
15. When there is a significant difference between the latest observed position and the expected position of the ship.
16. If amendments to the passage plan require immediate approval.
17. When encountering a suspicious ship or boat heading toward your vessel.
18. If the Deck Watch Officer is in doubt as to the correct action to take from any cause or for any reason.
19. When a “giving way vessel” comes within 15 minutes of the allowable CPA without significant bearing change and all communication attempts to determine that vessel’s intentions have failed.
20. On failure to sight land or navigation mark by the expected time.
21. If the actual depth soundings on the echo sounder disagree with expected readings.
22. If unmarked navigation hazards are sighted.
23. When approaching or experiencing a reduction in visibility.
24. When approaching heavy traffic or the movements of other vessels are causing concerns.
25. If difficulty is experienced in maintaining the ship’s course.
26. In heavy weather, if you doubt the possibility of weather damage.
27. On the position marked on the navigational chart.
28. If the navigational mark is missing at the expected time or there is doubt about the vessel’s position.
29. If a new voyage order is received.
30. Upon receipt of any distress call.
31. In any situation not mentioned above, which would be considered a “special circumstance” as defined by COLREGS.
What if you can’t find the Master?
Sometimes, the Master may not be immediately available when his presence on the bridge is of utmost urgency.
Perhaps he’s in the gym, inside the foam room, or out on deck fishing.
In such cases, you can sound two short rings of the general alarm.
This may differ from company to company, so seeing the manuals for such signals is imperative.
Final thoughts
The Master shall be informed whenever an event or change occurs of which a mariner should be aware.
Such change does not need to be a potential emergency and does not necessarily lead to a change in existing operations.
Furthermore, the Officer on the Watch shall not hesitate to take immediate action for the ship’s safety where circumstances require it.
The above list is not intended to be exclusive but merely to set minimum expectations. The ship may add to this list of circumstances or events regarding when to call the Master.
May the winds be in your favor.
A family man, he loves writing, reading, investing, and watching the golden hours while sailing.
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