Bridge Procedures Guide

The Bridge Procedures Guide, Seventh Edition builds on 50 years of navigational best practice for all ships operating across all sectors and trades. It provides practical guidance to support safe, effective and environmentally responsible bridge operations, with a stronger focus on bridge team communication and a new self-assessment tool to help users review on board practice and identify improvements.

Published by the International Chamber of Shipping Publications, the seventh edition is available to pre-order, with publication in print and e-book formats expected in January 2027.

What is new in the Bridge Procedure Guide, Seventh Edition?

The seventh edition introduces new guidance and practical tools to help bridge teams respond to changing technology and operational demands. Developed with input from serving masters, officers, technical specialists and ship operators, it combines expanded operational content with a stronger emphasis on teamwork, professional judgement and continuous improvement. 

New comprehensive self-assessment tool

Review on board practice against the guide’s recommendations, identify gaps in areas such as training, competency and maintenance, and refer directly to relevant chapters. The tool also supports navigational assessments, internal audits and improvements to safety management systems. 

Strengthened bridge team guidance

Expanded coverage of challenge and response, closed-loop communication and the navigator/co-navigator model helps every team member contribute actively. Enhanced guidance on mentoring, junior officer development and cadet training supports the next generation of bridge officers.

Expanded guidance on unreliable satellite positionings

Coverage of GNSS spoofing, jamming and other causes of unreliable positioning helps Officers of the Watch recognise warning signs and respond when navigational information may be compromised.

New fatigue awareness guidance

Helps bridge team members understand fatigue, recognise the signs of fatigue and consider how they can support one another, with an accompanying self-assessment tool.

New artificial intelligence guidance

New coverage considers AI’s role in supporting – not replacing – bridge team decision-making, emphasising professional judgement, verification of outputs and the master’s overriding authority.

New diving operations guidance and checklist

Clearer guidance on the Officer of the Watch’s duties, supported by communication procedures and a practical checklist, helps bridge teams coordinate diving operations.

New cyber security and updated maritime security guidance

A new bridge cyber security risk assessment checklist supports the identification of cyber risks, complemented by guidance on vessel routeing to reduce maritime security-related risks.

Aligned procedures across all on board departments

Closer alignment with the Deck Procedures Guide and Engine Room Procedures Guide supports consistent procedures across on board departments. 

Who is the guide for?

The Bridge Procedures Guide is regularly used on board all ship types and by the following people: 

• Masters 
• Officers in charge of navigational watch, bridge officers, helmsmen and look outs
• Junior officers and cadets 
• Designated persons ashore and superintendents
• Navigational auditors and relevant shore-based personnel 
• Marine pilots

Frequently asked questions

When will the seventh edition of the Bridge Procedures Guide be published?

January 2027

Can I pre-order the seventh edition of the Bridge Procedures Guide?

Yes, it is available for pre-order from November 2026

Does the seventh edition replace the sixth edition?

Yes the sixth edition will be superseded by the seventh edition and the latest edition should be available on board

Will supporting resources and checklists be available to download?

Several resources from the Bridge Procedures Guide, Seventh Edition will be available to download for free once the publication is released in January 2027, including posters, emergency checklists and assessment tools.

Who should use the Bridge Procedures Guide?

The Bridge Procedures Guide is regularly used on board all ship types and by the following people: 

• Masters 
• Officers in charge of navigational watch, bridge officers, helmsmen and look outs
• Junior officers and cadets 
• Designated persons ashore and superintendents
• Navigational auditors and relevant shore-based personnel 
• Marine pilots

Is the Bridge Procedures Guide available in digital format?

Yes, the Bridge Procedures Guide, Seventh Edition is available
as an e-book through many of our e-book partner platforms - www.ics-shipping.org/publications/ebooks