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This is where most of the navigational tasks take place. The Captain or the Master is said to be the representative of the ship`s owner. He has to ensure the safe passage of his men and material.

The Pilot helps during navigation, especially while taking the ship in and out of waters (canals and harbours). The Serang controls and supervises the work of the deck crew while the Harbour master is in charge of administrative work at the docks and wharves, the entrance into and exit from the ports.

The deck department also has other staff, known as `Ratings`. Though they have specific duties they shuttle between the departments as well. They act as look-outs and helmsmen, help clean the holds and tanks before the cargo is placed in them, assist with the securing of the ship as it docks at different ports. The electrical officer handles the safety and work efficiency of all the electrical equipment. The seaconny ensures that the ship is on course and that the gangway at a port is well guarded.

Service Department: The work undertaken here revolves around the living and catering services for all the crew on board. A chief steward heads a large team of stewards, bakers, messmen etc. The department also has divers, light keepers and nautical surveyors.