Key Tips for New Second Officers Joining a Vessel.

Introduction: Getting Ready to Sail as Second Officer

Joining a ship as a Second Officer is both exciting and demanding. Whether you’re a returning mariner or stepping into the role for the first time, the responsibility is real—from safety checks to navigation to team coordination. The second mate holds one of the critical ranks on board, especially when it comes to passage planning and bridge equipment.

In this blog, we’ll walk through key things every Second Officer should keep in mind when joining a vessel. Drawing from real, sea-going experience, this guide will help you feel better prepared and boost your confidence before stepping on deck.

What Does a Second Officer Do Onboard?

The Second Officer, often called the 2/O, is typically responsible for passage planning, updating charts and publications, bridge equipment, and safety gear. In many ships, the 2/O is also the medical officer. Basically, you’re the bridge between the senior officers and the junior crew on navigational matters.

Your **daily routine** includes:

• Keeping watch on the bridge during navigation
• Maintaining the ship’s navigational charts and publications
• Preparing detailed passage plans before setting sail
• Running safety drills and maintaining life-saving equipment

If the idea of staring at a paper chart for hours updating it sounds boring—well, it’s a part of the job. But the accuracy of those markings could mean all the difference when you’re mid-Atlantic, with a heavy swell and reduced visibility.

When Should You Start Preparing?

Ideally, your prep as a Second Officer begins before you receive your joining date. Once your company gives you the green light, use that time wisely. Start collecting details about:

• Type of vessel (tanker, bulk carrier, container ship, etc.)
• Trading route and port rotation
• Bridge equipment installed (ECDIS model, RADAR type, GMDSS setup)
• Flag state regulations and company-specific SOPs

These small early steps can make a huge difference to how quickly and efficiently you settle once onboard.

Where Should You Pay Extra Attention Onboard?

From the moment you step foot on the gangway, you need to keep your eyes open and mind alert. Here are core areas that require immediate attention:

1. Bridge and Navigational Equipment

Make it a point to familiarize yourself with:

• The layout of bridge equipment
• ECDIS models and their database update status
• Performance of RADARs, AIS, BNWAS, and gyrocompass
• Communication systems like GMDSS and navtex

Often, equipment might have issues or outdated software. Reporting and fixing these early prevents problems during navigational watch.

2. Passage Planning and Charts

This is your turf. Check how:

• Charts are corrected (paper and electronic)
• Sailing directions and notices to mariners are managed
• ENCs are updated—weekly corrections are crucial

Verify if the last completed passage plans are well-documented to get a base idea for your next route.

3. Safety Equipment Checks

You’re not just planning voyages—you’re making sure every crew member can survive if something goes wrong.

Inspect:

• Life jackets, immersion suits, lifeboats, liferafts
• EPIRBs, SARTs, fire-fighting suits and fixed installations
• Fire extinguishers and their servicing dates

All these form the backbone of the ship’s Safety Management System (SMS). A surprise PSC inspection could happen anytime, and you should be ready.

Why Does Documentation Matter?

There’s a saying in shipping—“If it’s not written, it didn’t happen.” As Second Officer, your documentation should be tight and timely. Many operations are paper-based, and the 2/O is often the main link between paperwork and operational reality.

Include:

• Daily positions, noon reports
• Watch handovers, port clearance files
• ISM checklists and safety drills reports

Keeping digital and paper logs updated isn’t just a company requirement—it also keeps you legally covered.

How to Settle Smoothly During Handover?

One crucial phase is your *handover with the outgoing Second Officer*. This is where you gain all the internal ship-specific knowledge that no manual or SOP can fully explain. Make sure you:

• Understand their passage planning methods and tools
• Check the last few port logs and reports
• Run through maintenance schedules and due updates
• Note down any defects or scheduled surveys

Ask questions—it shows that you care, and no one minds helping someone who’s genuinely interested.

What About the Human Element?

It’s not all about screens, radars, and charts. Ships are run by people. As Second Officer, you’ll often liaise between senior officers and ratings. Make sure you:

• Know your team—especially lookouts and bridge watchmen
• Communicate clearly during orders and drills
• Listen to fellow officers and respect their views on equipment
• Be approachable—it creates trust and smoother operations

From personal experience on a tanker, I once had a terrific lookout from Myanmar. We didn’t share a common language fluently, but because I explained duties calmly and led by example, the teamwork was excellent during a stormy week in the South China Sea.

Important Checklist on Joining Day

Here’s a quick second officer checklist every 2/O should refer to on Day 1:

• Check all your certifications are valid and present
• Review passage plan and chart corrections
• Inspect bridge navigation systems and check logs
• Verify GMDSS operation and logbook status
• Check LSA and FFA inventory with dates
• Review handover notes thoroughly and ask questions

These initial hours can shape your entire contract. Use them wisely.

Conclusion: Confidence Comes from Preparation

Stepping onboard as a Second Officer is a moment of pride, but also one that demands readiness and care. The more attention you pay in those early days—from bridge equipment checks to handovers to crew relationships—the smoother and safer your contract will be.

Take it step-by-step, checklists in hand. With good preparation, the vast sea becomes a lot less intimidating.

For further reading and seafarer updates, you can refer to official resources like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and ILO’s Maritime Labour Convention Guide.

Fair winds and calm seas to all second mates preparing for their next voyage!