The Chief Mate has the most difficult, and in many ways, the most important position on a vessel. An energetic Chief Mate, who is also competent, makes his vessel a successful organization. He should possess the necessary knowledge and skill in his profession, combined with initiative, tact, and executive ability of a high order.
The position of Chief Mate is the test job of the sea. An indifferent junior officer can survive for years, but when he is appointed Chief Mate, he must either make good, and achieve promotion, or his faults and shortcomings overtake him and ruin his career. This is the hard screen through which the master mariners are sifted.
+Next to Master.+ The Chief Mate is next in authority to the Master, and acts in his place during his absence. If the Master dies while the vessel is at sea, the Chief Mate assumes command, and is vested with all of the authority and responsibilities of that station, subject to the pleasure of the owners upon the arrival of the vessel in port.
+He Reports for Duty.+ Upon receiving his appointment to a vessel as Chief Mate, it is the duty of that officer to report on board and present his credentials to the Master without delay. He should be ready to take up his duties at once, settling all of his private affairs before going on board.
He should carry out any special orders that the Master may give.
+Vessel in the Stream.+ If the vessel is in the stream the new Chief Mate should note the following:
2. Verify depth of water and character of bottom.
3. How much chain out—what anchor? Is chain locked on windlass, or on riding chocks?
4. If moored, either bow or stern, inspect mooring wires; trappings; etc., see to means for slipping and hauling in.
5. Is the anchorage safe—at all times—at that season?
6. What weather—tide—current—sea, may be expected?
7. Examine windlass carefully—be certain you know how to work same +at night+.
8. Look to compressors—capstans—and anchor davits, if fitted.
9. Look to hand gear—that brake beams, bars, and stoppers are handy, and where located.
10. Look for fo'c'sle hose, and connection. Be ready to flush off a chain covered with mud, so there will be no delay when heaving in.
11. Look for docking telegraph—learn dial.