Officer of the Watch (OOW) (OOW)

The deck officer assigned responsibility for the vessel’s navigational watch on behalf of the master.

The OOW maintains lookout, monitors position and passage plan, applies the collision regulations, manages bridge resources, responds to traffic and weather, and calls the master as required by standing orders and circumstances.

The master’s presence does not automatically relieve the OOW unless the transfer is clearly stated and understood. Duties, certification and watch arrangements are governed by the vessel, flag state, STCW and company procedures.