OOW Revision: Seagoing Service & Watchkeeping Evidence (MSN 1856, Section 9)

Revision card 3 of 7 — Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited, STCW Convention Regulation II/1, MSN 1856 (M+F) Amendment 1.

What Counts as Seagoing Service

• Can be performed on vessels of any flag
• Must be on merchant ships of at least 24 metres load line length, or not less than 80 GT, proceeding to sea — meaning beyond categorised UK coastal waters or harbour limits
• At least 6 months of your qualifying seagoing service must fall within the 5 years immediately before your application

Documentary Evidence

• Merchant Navy discharge book entries or certificates of discharge
• Supported by testimonials from the Master covering your conduct, ability, and seagoing/watchkeeping service
• For an OOW II/1 application specifically: a statement from the Master confirming you performed bridge watchkeeping duties — lookout or helmsman — under supervision for not less than 6 months