DWO Watchkeeping and Communication 2

Question 1

When taking over a navigational watch, which action must be completed BEFORE relieving the watch officer?

Accepted Answer

Confirm your own position fix and verify the ship's position

Answer

STCW requires the relieving officer to independently verify the ship's position before assuming the watch.

Question 2

What does a VHF DSC distress alert automatically transmit?

Accepted Answer

MMSI number, nature of distress, and position if GPS-connected

Answer

A DSC distress alert transmits the MMSI, distress nature, time, and position when interfaced with GPS.

Question 3

Under COLREGS, when should a vessel in restricted visibility sound one prolonged blast?

Accepted Answer

Every 2 minutes when making way through the water

Answer

Rule 35 requires a power-driven vessel making way in restricted visibility to sound one prolonged blast every 2 minutes.

Question 4

Which watch condition requires the OOW to immediately call the master?

Accepted Answer

CPA projected to be less than the minimum safe distance set by the master

Answer

The master's standing orders typically define a minimum CPA threshold that triggers an immediate call.

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of the GMDSS watch on DSC Channel 70?

Accepted Answer

Continuous automated distress and safety alerting

Answer

Channel 70 is reserved exclusively for DSC distress, urgency, and safety calling — not voice traffic.

(DWO) Deck Watch Officer Practice Test