Watchkeeping is one of the most essential roles on a sailboat. Whether you’re sailing across an ocean or navigating between islands, standing watch is about more than just steering, it’s about safety, teamwork, and keeping the rhythm of the boat going 24/7.
Watch can be boring, but it’s vital for the safety of the vessel and its crew. Watch can be exciting. Whatever the situation, take this job seriously, everyone’s lives depend on you!
Watch Handover on our Offshore Sailing trip
Here’s a video where one of our best skippers Thomas, captures a typical watch change on our recent Atlantic Ocean Passage, sailing from the Canary Islands to Cape Verde.
What Makes a Good Watchkeeper?
Show Up on Time and Be Prepared
Arrive on deck dressed appropriately for the conditions, ready to take over responsibilities from the previous watch team.
Stay Alert
Scan the horizon every 10 minutes for boats, squalls, lights, or land. Keep a weather eye open and anticipate any necessary course adjustments.
Maintain Course and Trim Sails
If permitted, make minor sail adjustments and course corrections to optimize performance and efficiency.
Monitor the Environment
Keep an eye on wind speed, direction, and barometer readings. Changes in these could indicate shifting weather conditions that require attention.
Keep the Logbook Updated
Record position, wind conditions, and observations. A well-kept log is crucial for navigation, safety, and tracking progress. And also mandatory by law.
Communicate Clearly
Brief the next watch on all key details: weather, course, traffic, potential concerns, and any emergency procedures that need attention to ensure a smooth handover.
Wake the Captain When Necessary
If you’re unsure about a situation, be on the side of caution. Big wind changes, system malfunctions, or unidentified hazards you better wake up the skipper.
Never Leave the Watch Unattended
No matter how tired you are, do your duty as a lookout to ensure the safe navigation of the ship. not leave your post until the next watch arrives.
Look After the Crew
Small gestures, like boiling water for the next watch’s tea or coffee, go a long way in maintaining morale and keeping energy levels up.
What’s It Like to Be on Watch?
Imagine waking up to your crewmate shaking your shoulder: “Bri, Bri, it’s time for watch.” You crawl out of your bunk, pull on your gear, and stumble to the cockpit in the dark, red headlamp guiding your way. The previous watch hands over the helm, briefing you on wind conditions, any vessels in sight, and notes on the weather. You take the wheel, scanning the vast ocean around you, feeling the hum of the boat beneath your feet. This is watchkeeping.
Some nights, you’re in awe, shooting stars overhead, bioluminescence trailing behind, and the wind perfectly filling the sails. Other times, you’re bracing against squalls, reefing sails in the dark, and navigating heavy waves. It’s unpredictable, challenging, and exhilarating.
Watch Systems: How We Do It on Offshore Passages
There are many ways to go about watch schedules and watch systems.
How many Hours ON and Off
3 hours ON and 6 hours OFF is a balanced system that allows enough rest between watches, ensuring crew members stay sharp and alert. Everybody gets to see the sunrise and sunset as the watch times shift per day, per team.
4 hours ON and 8 hours OFF is long for solo watches but nice if you can watch keep in pairs or more. It allows for longer resting. Every day you have the same section of the day to keep watch.
Paired Watches
Working in pairs, rotating crewmates for social variety and added safety, particularly during night shifts.
Solo Night Watches
Reserved for experienced sailors who are confident in their navigation and seamanship skills.
Mother Watch System
One crew member is assigned to cooking and cleaning for the day, excused from night watch duties, allowing others to rest fully when off watch.
Learn Offshore Sailing With Ocean Nomads
On our Offshore Sailing AdventureYou’ll experience real offshore watchkeeping, navigating by moonlight, reading weather patterns, and maintaining a steady course through the waves as a deck officer. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a hands-on sailing immersion designed to build your confidence and seamanship.
Want to experience offshore sailing firsthand? Join us in the Canary Islands for a 10-day offshore skill-building expedition and take your seamanship to the next level.
Our trips have always been full. Apply today to secure your spot.
Rather experience sailboat travel on your own pace and schedule? Join our online Sailboat Travel Crew Course and let us guide to happy, safe and meaningful travel at sea.
