A duty rotation system where a vessel's crew is split into two halves that alternate shifts. This typically results in a punishing schedule of four hours on duty followed by four hours off, day and night. It is usually implemented during emergencies, heavy weather, or on short-handed vessels where maximum manpower is required at all times.
Heard on the job
We blew a generator in the storm and the old man put us in watch in two until we reached port.
Insider tip
This is universally hated by crews because it makes getting a full continuous night of sleep impossible.
Also heard as
- two-watch system