Who to ask, and when
The first thing to learn on a new yacht is who you actually report to. The hierarchy is there for a reason, and using it properly keeps small problems small.
Before you start
The exact structure depends on the size of the vessel. On a small boat you may work closely with the captain; on a larger one your daily instruction comes from the bosun or chief officer.
Video coming soon
Who to ask, and when
Straight to camera: the chain of command, reporting problems early and when to go higher.
The rule
Orders come down. Information goes up.
The captain carries overall responsibility. The chief officer runs the deck department. The bosun normally controls the daily deck work, and the deckhands follow the plan they are given. You do not need to chase the captain every time you have a question about a washdown.
The lesson
Using the chain properly
- 01
Follow the instruction you are given
If the bosun gives you a normal work instruction, follow it. If the chief officer changes it, follow the chief officer and make sure the bosun knows what has changed.
What goes wrong: Collecting three different answers and choosing the one you prefer.
- 02
Report problems early
If you damage a fitting, find a fault or realise you have missed part of a procedure, tell the person directly above you. Do it straight away.
What goes wrong: A small problem hidden for six hours is often a much bigger problem.
- 03
Know when to go higher
Immediate danger, a navigation concern, fire, flooding, an injury or anything covered by the emergency procedure goes through the fastest correct route.
What goes wrong: Waiting quietly because the bosun is having lunch.
- 04
Stop and clarify an unsafe instruction
Respecting the hierarchy does not mean doing something you believe will hurt somebody. Say what you have seen, clearly and without drama: “Can you confirm you want me to continue?”
What goes wrong: Repeatedly ignoring a procedure because you have your own opinion of how the job should be done.
Remember: On joining, ask who gives you the daily work list, who signs off your training and who must be called for each type of problem.
Quick check
Four decisions, then move on
This check confirms the principle. Your vessel's own induction still comes first.