Up on the deck and on the bridge
The master
The navigation and maintenance of the ship falls to the officers
and deck crew. A constant watch is kept on the sea and weather
conditions. The crew are vigilant to rust from the saltwater and
the daily routine of cleaning ensures a safe and well-maintained
ship. 
 Canadian Pacific master on deck |
The deck officers and the seamen under their control have a
variety of responsibilities. They navigate and steer the ship,
setting and keeping to a course that avoids hazards (including, if
possible, bad weather). Their aim is to get the ship to its
destination quickly and safely. At sea, they are responsible for
maintaining the exterior of the ship. To do this the seamen will
chip rust, repaint the hull, and overhaul equipment such as
derricks and lifeboats. When berthing, an officer and some seamen
will deal with the ropes from tugs or the quay. In harbour, the
deck officers ensure that the cargo is stowed safely, and in the
right order for it to be discharged at the various ports of
call. In overall charge is the captain or master. Although not always
having the day-to-day responsibility for running the ship (which is
usually delegated to the first officer), the master is completely
accountable when anything goes wrong. So in bad weather, or in
tricky waters, the master will usually be on the bridge.
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