Who is responsible for the safe navigation of the ship?

The Officer of the Deck (OOD) is responsible for the safe navigation of the ship. This role encompasses a broad range of duties, including ensuring that the vessel is operated safely and in compliance with all navigational rules and regulations. The OOD must be aware of the ship's position, course, and speed, and must make decisions based on various factors such as weather conditions, traffic in the vicinity, and the operational situation.

In addition to navigation, the OOD is responsible for the overall watch standing and must effectively communicate with other personnel on board, including the conning officer and the bridge team. This responsibility includes not only maintaining situational awareness but also implementing emergency procedures if necessary. The OOD represents the commanding officer on the bridge and therefore carries the weight of authority regarding navigation and the safety of the ship.

The other roles mentioned, such as the Boatswain's Mate of the Watch (BMOW), the conning officer (CONN), and the coxswain, have specific duties that support the navigation process, but they do not hold the overarching responsibility for safe navigation as the OOD does.