Each vessel has its own hierarchical structure of authority. We have set out below a short description of the most common positions.

Master
(addressed as ‘Captain’)

The captain, or master, is responsible for the safe and economical operation of the vessel in compliance with applicable
regulations. He or she is ultimately responsible for the safety of hundreds, or sometimes even thousands of passengers.

A captain is expected to possess managerial and leadership skills in addition to competence in navigation, seamanship and docking procedures.

On call 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, Sundays and holidays included.
In practice many tasks and duties are delegated to other officers onboard and the role is mainly managerial and supervisory but with a good measure of administration thrown in.

Chief Mate
(also called ‘Chief Officer’)

Second in command of the vessel. Assumes command in the Master’s absence. Responsible for safe loading, stowage, carriage and discharge of cargo. Responsible for deck maintenance, ensuring all equipment is maintained in good working order. Responsible for fire and safety equipment: ensuring all ready, available and in good working order. Supervises deck personnel, promotes safety, and performs administrative duties.

Ensures required equipment and materials are purchased and available for use.

Second Mate
(also called ‘Second Officer’)

Assumes responsibility for standing a navigation and cargo watch. Responsible for ensuring all bridge equipment is in good working order, and all necessary charts and publications are onboard and corrected through the latest N.M. Plans deck maintenance, maintains appropriate records/logs, submits reports, assists the Master in all aspects of voyage planning and communications.

Upkeep of navigational charts and publications .

Third Mate

Assumes responsibility for a navigation and cargo watch. Responsible for ensuring all fire-fighting and safety equipment is inspected and maintained in good working order. Primary medical officer - responsible for rendering first aid and ensuring adequate medical supplies available. Maintains proper medical logs and safety maintenance records.

Chief Engineer

Responsible for the Engineering Department and engineering personnel. The technical manager of the vessel. Stands watch in the engine room as necessary and during all maneuverings. Oversees the operation, maintenance and repairs of the vessel. Assigns and performs duties as necessary to ensure the engine room is a safe working environment in operational readiness.

The chief engineer is the most highly qualified and experienced technical person on the vessel. He/she has a thorough knowledge of the vessel’s construction, machinery and engineering systems together with all relevant legislation pertaining to them.

Able Bodied Seamen

Performs deck maintenance under the supervision of the Mate. Assists in the mooring, docking and anchoring operations. Operates deck machinery including hatches, gangway, winches, crane, etc. Performs ballast/de-ballast operations in port and occasionally lookout/helm duties at sea. Required to assist in taking on stores and performing custodial duties.

Able-bodied seaman stands bridge watch, lookout, helmsman, and steers the ship. He can also run the ship’s main launch.