ABSTRACT
Watchkeeping operations have changed, being influenced considerably by Global positioning systems (GPS), an enforced one-man bridge system and the monitoring of increased electronic navigation systems. It is the duty of every Master to ensure that the watchkeeping arrangements for his ship are adequate for maintaining a safe navigational watch. All watchkeeping officers are the Master's representatives and are individually responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel throughout their period of duty. Various duties are carried out by watchkeepers either individually or as a bridge team. The Officer of the Watch must supervise and manage the efficient running of the watch and ensure the safe navigation of the vessel throughout the watch period; his or her main duty is to maintain a proper lookout whenever the vessel is at sea, regardless of other personnel engaged on a similar duty. Navigational duties include the regular checking of the ship's course and the comparison of the gyroscopic compasses with the magnetic compass.
