The essential guide to safe and effective bridge procedures for yacht officers and deck students.

This practical resource will give you the confidence to manage and work on the navigating bridge effectively, reduce errors and communicate clearly during routine and critical operations. Covering modern navigational practices, role-specific advice, bridge resource management and passage planning, it aligns with STCW-95 standards and supports both training and onboard practice. It is a vital textbook for all those studying and preparing for Flag State professional qualifications.

Fully updated to reflect technological advances, this handbook draws on years of sea time, instructing and mentoring experience into practical advice that aids all deck officer ranks to become trusted professionals. It addresses real-world challenges often missed in classroom training, from balancing work and rest under MLC rules to preparing for audits and Flag inspections. Relevant for large yachts, cruise ships and all seagoing vessels, it is packed with photographs, templates and checklists, to help you stay compliant and safe.

Stephen Monk served 22 years in the Royal Navy, rising from junior aircraft mechanic to Navigator of the Fleet Flag Ship, HMS Ark Royal. A Chartered Master Mariner and Fellow of the Royal Institute of Navigation, he sits on maritime education committees and founded Da Gama Maritime in 2009.
Frances and Michael Howorth are writers and sailors with thousands of sea miles. Frances is an award-winning photographer, while Michael is a certified Captain qualified to command yachts up to 3,000 tons.