Fourth winter as helmsman between the Magdalen Islands and Montreal, Canada.

I'm often asked what I do in winter?

I've been a helmsman or deckhand on a ship for 5 consecutive winters in the Magdalen Islands (QC, Canada) with CTMA (Coopérative de Transport Maritime et Aérien).

What exactly is this job?

I work exclusively in the wheelhouse. This refers to all navigation installations and equipment. 

Here's exactly what I did on board the ship carrying goods between Montreal and the islands:

• I'm the person responsible for steering the boat, maneuvering the rudder (using the wheel) according to the captain's, pilot's or officer's orders.
• I have to be aware of the environment, including the sea, potential obstacles and other vessels. 
• I must be able to operate alarms and apply emergency procedures according to my shift.
• Stay focused on the radar and all navigation equipment when on autopilot.
• Adapt to weather and sea conditions and adjust the rudder to compensate for the effects of waves, wind or currents.