SHIP: The bridge is the highest position on one of the ship’s decks, where the officer of the watch and the signalman normally carry out the sea watch. This deck housed the navigational devices and equipment, the gun sighting column and service workplaces for the staff of the bridge.
COMMANDER OF THE SHIP: The bridge on Lindau-class ships has been upgraded to an open bridge. For a sailor, the open deck is the place where man and sea meet. Here, the evening breeze caresses the cheeks and the challenges of day, night, rain and snow become a daily routine. A sailor not only watches the navigational devices, but also experiences the true spirit of the maritime lifestyle. Every moment on the bridge, watching the rudder angle or adjusting the fire reminds us that the sea is not only intimidating, but also gently embracing with its constant challenges.

SHIP: There were also many unwritten traditions on board, which strengthened the crew’s bonds and created a unique spirit. One tradition was related to bridges. You see a bridge in front of you. If a train, ambulance or other special services vehicle happened to pass when navigating under the bridge, the officer on duty owed the crew a debt of something symbolical. (Pause) Oh, are you lucky or are you in debt while you’re standing here? A small tradition that reminded us that even in a world of strict duties there is room for surprises and brotherly laughter.

Background sound: calls on someone of the crew members, “Chief signalman, stand by for the watch. I repeat: Chief signalman, stand by.”

CHIEF SIGNALMAN (SOUNDMAN): Standing on the bridge, the signalman becomes the sea watchman, alertly watching the horizon day and night. I watch the ships, I see how they are receding or approaching, looking for indistinguishable obstacles that can hide beyond the reach of the radar. I am like a link with the past, when the first sailors did not have any radars and relied only on their own eyes and instincts. The signalman not only looks at the sea, but also talks to it – using the Morse Code, light signals, flags which must always be prepared, clean and ready to send the message.

Background sound: “Your watch is over.”

SHIP: When mine-hunting at night, all the outer lights were turned off and only the main green lights on the ship’s mast and sides were on. Other vessels could already see and understand that this ship is performing the mine-hunting function, so one must keep a safe distance or, if necessary, to circumnavigate this ship.