A time period, usually of four hours, e.g. 12-4, 4-8, 8-12, which operates round the clock. It is the working period for one or more officers and crew in the navigation and engineering departments.
- Continuous watch – Continuous watch means that the radio watch concerned shall not be interrupted other than for brief intervals when the ships, receiving capability is impaired or blocked by its own communications or when the facilities are under periodical maintenance or checks (SOLAS).