April 03, 2020
Second Officer/Mate
The Second Officer is the ship’s navigator and has the prime responsibility of the upkeep of charts and passage planning. At sea the Second Officer will keep watches and, in port, shares cargo watches with the Third Mate. Interestingly, the Second Mate is often the ship’s medical officer.
Key tasks:
• Route planning.
• Undertake watches (Midnight to 4 am and Midday to 4 pm).
• Correcting charts, sailing directions etc.
• Prepare noon reports.
• Test bridge equipment.
• Prepare deck log each month.
• GMDSS communication.
• Maintain ship’s library and publications.
• Assist Chief in port while loading and discharging.
• Handling mooring stations.
• Act as the Medical Officer.
Entry requirements/training:
The Second Officer holds a Deck Class-III certificate of competency and may hold the Class-I, Class -II CoC as well.
Career advancement:
With further experience or exams, they can become a Chief Mate.