Master (Captain)
Ultimate Authority & Responsibility
The Master is the highest authority on board the vessel, legally responsible for the safety of the crew, the vessel, the cargo, and the environment. This role combines nautical expertise, managerial leadership, and legal compliance.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
- Overall Command: Has final authority and responsibility for all navigation, operational, commercial, and safety decisions.
- Safety & Security: The designated "Ship Security Officer." Ensures compliance with all international (SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW), flag state, and port state regulations. Leads emergency drills and responses.
- Navigation: Oversees the bridge team and approves the passage plan. Makes critical decisions regarding weather routing and collision avoidance.
- Commercial Operations: Responsible for the commercial performance of the voyage. Liaises with charterers, agents, and port authorities. Signs bills of lading and official logs.
- Crew Management: Ultimate authority over crew hiring, welfare, discipline, and payroll. Acts as a magistrate at sea in legal matters.
- Legal & Documentation: The vessel's legal representative. Ensures all certificates, documents, and logs are valid, accurate, and properly maintained.
- Environmental Compliance: Ensures strict adherence to environmental protocols to prevent pollution.
Key Skills: Decisive leadership, expert navigator, profound knowledge of maritime law, crisis management, and strong interpersonal skills.
