Night Order Book – The Master's Essential Guide for Safe Bridge Watchkeeping
The Night Order Book, also known as the Bridge Order Book, is one of the Master's most important navigational documents for ensuring safe bridge watchkeeping during nighttime operations. Although not explicitly required by the SOLAS Convention, it is developed in accordance with the STCW Code, ISM Code, and the vessel's Safety Management System (SMS). This article explains the regulatory basis, key contents, and practical implementation of the Night Order Book, highlighting its vital role in promoting effective communication between the Master and the Officer of the Watch, enhancing navigational safety, and ensuring compliance with international maritime standards.
“ Night Order Book” is called by other name “Bridge Order Book” is a documentation issued by Ship Master in order to implemented strictly the International conventions & regulations in Safety Management System (SMS) of appointed Ship. It is not display in particular in Solas, but it is display in some conventions & regulation of STCW code, ISM code and SMS
- The main sources
- Regulation 34, Chapter V of SOLAS: Safe Navigation and Voyage planning
- Part A-VIII/2 of STCW Code : Watchkeeping
- ISM code , Section 5 ( Master’s Responsibility and Authority) and Section 7 (Shipboard operation )
- Key consideration in the Night Order
- Situation to call Master on the bridge
- Limit of CPA/ TCPA & Safe distant
- Weather condition & restricted visibility
- Traffic congestion
- Tss / Narrow Channel
- Shallow channel
- Time to call VTS or ETA
- Speed or alternative plan
- Dragging anchor if any
- ISPS procedure (piracy, security level).
- Engine room & Main engine lever
- Special notice for sailing area
- Implement:
Master should be logging in the Night Order Book every day and maintained all time
OOW should be read, understand and sign on this
Any doubt or not understand the circumstance need to re-ask for rectify ensure safety onboard
At Sunrise Manpower Co., Ltd., our experienced Captains emphasize that a well-prepared Night Order Book is far more than a routine record—it is a critical safety tool that ensures clear communication, effective bridge watchkeeping, and safe navigation. Sharing practical experience from sea is one of the ways we continuously support the professional development of our seafarers.
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