<P> The bridge of a ship is the room or platform from which the ship can be commanded . When a ship is underway, the bridge is manned by an officer of the watch aided usually by an able seaman acting as lookout . During critical maneuvers the captain will be on the bridge, often supported by an officer of the watch, an able seaman on the wheel and sometimes a pilot, if required . </P> <P> Traditionally, sailing ships were commanded from the quarterdeck, aft of the mainmast, where the ship's wheel was located (as it was close to the rudder). With the arrival of paddle steamers, engineers required a platform from which they could inspect the paddle wheels and where the captain's view would not be obstructed by the paddle houses . A raised walkway, literally a bridge, connecting the paddle houses was therefore provided . When the screw propeller superseded the paddle wheel, the term "bridge" survived . </P>

Where does the captain sit on a cruise ship