and watches on ships.

Time and Watches on Ships

On board ship the day is divided into Seven Watches, and the crew into two divisions - the Starboard (on the steersman's right) and the Port (on  the steersman's left). These divisions break up the watching and working of the ship into convenient portions, and enable to crew to watch and work at alternate times. The Time is kept by means of bells , which are struck at certain intervals.

Afternoon	Watch from Noon to 4 pm
First Dog	Watch from 4 to 6 pm
Second Dog	Watch from 6 to 8 pm
First	Watch from 8 to 12 pm
Middle	Watch from 12 to 4 am
Morning	Watch from 4 to 8 am
Forenoon	Watch from 8 to Noon