ABSTRACT
The marine examiners do not expect candidates for the qualification of Officer of the Watch to be superhuman. However, they do expect candidates to present themselves in a smart manner and show an in-depth knowledge of the art of good seamanship. It should be remembered that this is the first of several rungs of the ladder towards the successful attainment of becoming a Master Mariner and it is not a qualification to be taken lightly. It will allow the candidate to take charge of a navigational watch at sea, and on deck when the vessel is in port. Once the licence is issued, the candidate will be called upon to act as the Master’s representative in many and varied situations. This responsibility is known by the examiner, and the candidate should ensure that when presenting himself for examination, he should be well prepared with regard to all the related subjects for that rank.
