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Global Marine Cadetships – Navigation-Deck Officer

Navigation-Deck Officer

 

Deck Officers are responsible for planning and executing the ship’s voyage, ensuring safe navigation through charting courses, monitoring weather and hazards, and complying with maritime regulations. They oversee cargo operations, manage deck equipment, and ensure safety protocols through inspections and drills.

 

In emergencies, they coordinate responses and launch lifeboats. Additionally, they lead the bridge team, maintain navigational records, ensure environmental compliance, and apply bridge resource management principles to enhance teamwork and operational efficiency.

 

Their expertise and leadership are essential for ensuring a safe and successful voyage at sea.

The Role of a Navigation-Deck Officer

Key responsibilities include:

Navigational Duties: Deck Officers are responsible for planning and executing the ship’s voyage. This includes charting the course, considering weather and navigational hazards, and ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations and local laws.

Watchkeeping: Deck officers stand watch on the bridge to ensure the safe navigation of the vessel. They monitor the ship’s position using navigational equipment such as radar, GPS, and charts. During their watch, they maintain communication with other vessels and shore authorities.

Safety and Emergency Response: Deck Officers play a critical role in the ship’s safety procedures. They conduct regular safety inspections, drills, and equipment checks. In emergencies, they coordinate response efforts, including launching lifeboats and initiating distress signals.

Cargo Operations: Depending on the type of vessel, Deck Officers oversee the loading, stowing, and securing of cargo. They ensure that cargo operations comply with safety regulations and maintain stability and trim of the ship.

Maintenance and Inspections: Deck Officers are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of deck equipment, life-saving appliances, and firefighting equipment. They conduct routine inspections to ensure everything is in good working order.

Bridge Team Management: Deck Officers lead the bridge team, which includes navigation officers and ratings. They delegate tasks, provide guidance, and ensure effective communication and coordination during operations.

Record Keeping and Documentation: Deck Officers maintain accurate navigational logs, records of cargo operations, and other documentation required by maritime regulations. They also handle administrative tasks related to port clearances and reporting.

Environmental Compliance: Deck Officers ensure the ship operates in an environmentally responsible manner. They follow protocols for waste disposal, ballast water management, and emissions reduction as per international standards.

Bridge Resource Management: Deck Officers practice bridge resource management (BRM) principles to enhance teamwork, decision-making, and situational awareness on the bridge. This helps prevent accidents and improve overall operational efficiency.

Navigation – Deck Officer Cadet Training

Becoming a Deck Officer begins with completing a three-year Higher National Certificate and Diploma in Nautical Science.

The course involves studying at our UK specialist nautical college partner and is split into three College Phases and two Sea Phases.

As a minimum the Cadet must achieve twelve months sea time of which six months will be performing bridge watchkeeping duties.


Topics covered at College

  • Navigation
  • Ships Operations
  • Safety and Emergency Procedures
  • Maritime Law and Management

Practical Training
Workshops and simulated bridge operations and emergency scenarios.

  • Electronic Chart Display and Information Course (ECDIS)
  • Global Maritime Distress Safety Systems Operator Course
  • ETO High Voltage Training

Safety Training

  • Fire Fighting
  • Sea Survival
  • Proficiency in Survival Crafts
  • First Aid at Sea

Sea Phase
A Task Record Book is issued where reports and specific tasks are to be performed

    Cadet Application Form

    Take the first step and apply!
    Start your journey to becoming a Global Marine Cadet by getting in touch with us. Complete the application form below, attach your CV, and we’ll provide you with more information about our Cadetship paths and the application process.












    Meet our Cadets

    Achieving long term goals

    Global Marine Deck Cadet Jordon Thomson shares his daily tasks, challenges, insights and the places he has travelled. as he aspires to become an Officer.

    Cadet to Chief Officer

    Learn more about the trail-blazing maritime career of Kaya Teare. Who joined Global Marine's Cadet Programme and has progressed through the ranks to Chief Officer.

    Cadet to 2nd Engineer

    Learn more about Jonathan's 10-year journey from Marine Engineer Cadet to achieving his current role as a 2nd Marine Engineer.

    Academic & Sea Life

    Thomas Mill shares his experience as a Marine Engineer Cadet, reflecting on both the
    academic side of the programme and his time spent at sea.