Seaways All Hands On Tech: Waking up to the BNWAS

27 Feb 2026 Seaways

by Capt Ann Pletschke CMMar FNI, STEER Project Manager

In January 2026, the Master of MV Solong testified in court that prior to the collision with MV Stena Immaculate, the Bridge Navigation Watch Alarm System (BNWAS) was turned off. He added that when he was alone, sometimes the BNWAS was turned on and other times it was not. His reason for switching the BNWAS off was that ‘I trusted myself’.

The use of BNWAS is an ideal way to kick off this technology-focused column. The aim of this new feature is to give us points to ponder, to challenge and to openly discuss on our ships, in our offices and also in our upcoming online forum.

BNWAS was made mandatory in 2011 and we have all grown used to its ‘beep’, the additional ‘buttons’ taking up bridge real estate and the additional routine testing as part of the Planned Maintenance System. But how effective has this technology been in the past 15 years?

  • How many of us set the system 24/7 when underway – and how many only do so when the bridge has a solo watchkeeper, or just during nighttime watches?
  • Do we always keep it set when the vessel is drifting or when engaged in Dynamic Positioning operations?
  • Has it become a nuisance to override, using creative solutions that so often prove how inventive we seafarers can be?
  • Is the BNWAS routinely activated during watches held by lower ranks, but switched off when the Master is on watch?
  • Is the system key or deactivating password left on the bridge or known to OOWs?
  • How many ships have systems that are adapted to watchkeeping operations with effective motion sensors, or connected to appropriate navigation equipment?
  • Do you consider the BNWAS to be a common-sense addition to bridge equipment, or equipment mitigating low crewing levels?


In recent years, there have been a number of collisions and groundings on vessels where the BNWAS was fitted but not activated. There has also, undoubtedly, been many an occasion where the BNWAS has woken up an officer who has fallen asleep on watch. The Nautical Institute is keen in looking into how the BNWAS can be improved for practical use to encourage compliance.

As a Master, I know that many of the above questions resonated with me during my time on board last year. and I am looking forward to engaging with many of you over on our new forum at https://www.steer-project.org/

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