Captains Explain How Cruise Ship Bridge Teams Handle Steering
Routine navigation may rely on autopilot, but licensed officers and hands-on controls take over during port operations.
Odyssey of the Seas Captain Marek Slaby said everyday steering duties are generally assigned to a crew member who rotates every four hours. Autopilot is commonly used for routine navigation when a ship is traveling straight through open water, while the bridge team monitors electronic navigation systems, speed controls and radar.
Former Celebrity Cruises Captain Kate McCue said Celebrity keeps at least three licensed, qualified officers on the bridge at all times. She described three teams working four-hour shifts followed by eight hours off. Each team includes an Officer of the Watch, an Assistant Officer of the Watch and a Quartermaster or lookout.
Port maneuvers are handled without autopilot. McCue said the ship’s wheel, which is smaller than a typical car steering wheel, is generally used after a pilot boards until the vessel nears the pier. It is used again after departure until the pilot leaves the ship.
Odyssey of the Seas is equipped with four bow thrusters and two propellers, which support the vessel’s maneuvering during hands-on operations.
