Introduction:

The Officer of the Watch (Deck) Course is a comprehensive training program designed and delivered by Global Horizon Training Center, aimed at equipping deck officers and seafarers with the essential competencies required to assume the responsibilities of a watchkeeping officer onboard vessels. This program is aligned with international maritime standards, including the STCW Convention, and reflects the latest best practices in navigational safety, watchkeeping, emergency response, and leadership at sea. It provides a structured pathway to professional certification and operational readiness for seafarers aspiring to progress into officer roles.

Whether you are preparing for the Certificate of Competency as OOW or seeking to reinforce your practical and theoretical knowledge, this program ensures participants are confident and competent in all key functions of the deck officer’s role.

Objectives:

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

• Understand the full scope of duties and responsibilities of an Officer of the Watch (Deck).

• Apply international regulations related to watchkeeping and navigation (COLREGS, SOLAS, STCW).

• Demonstrate proficiency in passage planning, radar and ARPA use, and bridge resource management.

• Execute safe watchkeeping practices including situational awareness, fatigue management, and decision-making.

• Respond effectively to navigational and operational emergencies.

• Exhibit leadership and communication skills essential to bridge team operations.

 Methodology:

The course uses a blended methodology that includes:

• Instructor-led theoretical lectures and interactive discussions.

• Case studies based on real-life maritime incidents.

• Bridge resource management scenarios and decision-making simulations (non-practical).

• Group exercises and collaborative planning.

• Visual aids, maritime charts, and documentation analysis.

Organizational Impact:

Organizations that invest in this training can expect:

• Reduced navigational errors and improved safety compliance.

• Higher crew competence and shipboard efficiency.

• Strengthened bridge team communication and emergency preparedness.

• Better adherence to international maritime regulations and port state requirements.

• Support for crew progression through structured officer development pathways.

Target Audience:

This course is ideal for:

• Junior deck officers preparing for OOW certification.

• Deck cadets and seafarers aiming for promotion.

• Ratings transitioning to officer roles.

• Marine superintendents and shore-based staff seeking refresher knowledge.

• Any maritime personnel requiring structured understanding of the OOW role.

 Outlines:

Day 1: The Role and Legal Responsibilities of the Officer of the Watch

• Introduction to STCW requirements for OOW

• Duties and responsibilities of the OOW

• SOLAS, COLREGS, and watchkeeping principles

• The importance of maintaining a proper lookout

• Working with the Master and bridge team

Day 2: Watchkeeping Procedures and Bridge Management

• Principles of safe watchkeeping

• Watch handover protocols and log keeping

• Bridge Resource Management (BRM)

• Fatigue management and situational awareness

• Night and restricted visibility navigation

Day 3: Navigation, Passage Planning, and Meteorology

• Voyage planning: appraisal, planning, execution, and monitoring

• Use of navigational charts and ECDIS overview

• Tidal calculations, currents, and route optimization

• Weather routeing and interpretation of forecasts

• Notices to Mariners and navigational updates

Day 4: Radar, ARPA, and Emergency Situations

• Radar and ARPA operations: collision avoidance, target tracking

• Limitations and errors in radar interpretation

• Emergency procedures: man overboard, fire, grounding, flooding

• Use of GMDSS and distress signals

• Communication protocols with coastal authorities

Day 5: Maritime Communication, Leadership & Readiness for Certification

• Bridge communication and standard marine vocabulary (SMCP)

• Role of OOW in teamwork and leadership onboard

• Preparing for oral and written competency exams

• Review of common oral questions for OOW exams

• Final assessment and feedback session