Seafarer Vision Center

Good eyesight matters at sea: lookout duties, reading instruments and charts, recognising navigation lights and working safely on deck and in machinery spaces. Eyesight standards for seafarers are set internationally (STCW) and applied by each national maritime authority.

Vision topics

• Visual AcuityHow sharpness of vision is measured and written down.
• Colour VisionWhy colour perception matters for navigation lights and signals.
• Corrected VisionAided and unaided vision explained.
• GlassesWearing and carrying spectacles on board.
• Contact LensesPractical points for lens wearers at sea.
• Eye ExaminationWhat to expect and how to prepare.

Vision articles

• VisionWhat Is 6/6 Vision?What 6/6 means on an eye test, how it relates to 20/20, and what "corrected" and "uncorrected" vision mean for seafarers.2 min read
• VisionWhat Is 20/20 Vision?20/20 explained in plain language, with its metric equivalent and what it does not tell you.1 min read
• VisionUnderstanding Visual AcuityHow visual acuity is tested with letter charts, what affects your result, and how to get an accurate measurement.1 min read
• VisionColour Vision and SeafarersWhy colour vision matters at sea, how it is tested, and why finding out early matters for deck careers.2 min read
• VisionSeafarers and GlassesPractical advice for seafarers who wear glasses or contact lenses — at the medical and on board.1 min read
• VisionPreparing for an Eye ExaminationHow to prepare for the vision part of your seafarer medical so the result reflects your true eyesight.1 min read