Anchorage Watch

An anchorage watch is a continuous bridge watch maintained while a ship lies at anchor, monitoring position for dragging, weather and traffic, and security threats such as unauthorized approach or boarding. SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 24 and STCW Code Section A-VIII/2 Part 4-1 require an appropriate watch at all times, including at anchor; the master sets its composition by circumstances. Under ISPS at MARSEC level 2 or 3, the watch adds anti-piracy and access-control duties: deck lighting, lookouts, and ship security alert readiness against armed robbery in port approaches.