What is the duty of a lookout on a vessel?

The duty of a lookout on a vessel is crucial for the safety and navigation of the ship. This role involves actively watching for other vessels, which is essential for preventing collisions at sea. The lookout must also be vigilant for navigational hazards such as rocks, buoys, and shallow waters that could pose a risk to the vessel’s safe passage. Additionally, the lookout is responsible for alerting the crew to any emergencies that may arise, such as man overboard situations or changes in weather conditions.

The importance of this role is underscored by the fact that the lookout often serves as the first line of defense in terms of situational awareness, allowing the crew to react to potential dangers or incidents promptly. This vigilance is supported by training and procedures that ensure that lookouts know what to watch for and how to communicate effectively with the bridge team.