an elevated platform built crosswise above the upper deck of a ship, with a clear view all around, from which a ship is normally navigated and from where all activities of the ship are controlled by the captain or officer of the watch. The bridge of a modern ship is normally totally enclosed by glass screens or windows to give protection from the weather. The main compasses are normally situated on the bridge, together with the steering wheel, a chart table for chart work and the ship's radar. The term may also refer to those who control the vessel from the bridge. See also chart in this glossary.—Welcome to the SO Glossary Final approval 2-Mar-90