Who is responsible for maintaining a 24-hour bridge watch according to the harbor safety regulations?

The responsibility for maintaining a 24-hour bridge watch according to harbor safety regulations lies with a licensed deck officer. This is primarily because licensed deck officers possess the necessary qualifications, training, and expertise to navigate and ensure the safety of the vessel while it is at sea or in port. They are trained to make critical decisions regarding the operation of the ship, manage the ship's systems, and respond appropriately in emergencies.

Maintaining a bridge watch is a vital function that involves not just monitoring the vessel's position but also ensuring compliance with safety regulations, communicating with other vessels and shore authorities, and being able to react to navigational hazards. Therefore, the presence of a licensed deck officer is crucial to fulfilling these responsibilities effectively and maintaining a high standard of safety at all times.

In contrast, unlicensed crew members, any available crew members, or deckhands, while they may assist onboard, do not typically hold the necessary credentials or training to command a bridge watch effectively and ensure compliance with safety protocols.