During the course of my career, I only saw the Voyage Data Recorder put to use once—when our ship struck port infrastructure in Spain. Often called the ship’s “black box,” I realized then that the VDR quietly records critical data during every voyage, even our bursts of laughter inside the bridge. This helped investigators piece […]
Category: Navigation
Tips for Keeping a Proper Look-Out
Maintaining a proper look-out is a blessing from the sea gods. Vigilant observation of the surrounding waters had saved many hulls from ramming into other ships or obstructions. Of all the rules in ColRegs, the look-out rule in Rule 5 is my favorite and probably the most important one. It’s this rule that you have […]
What Information Must Be Plotted on the Voyage Charts?
Accurate and up-to-date charts are critical for safe navigation. Still, they aren’t enough to keep a vessel fully prepared. Even with modern ECDIS systems, manually marking key areas with important details is still a good practice to further enhance the ship’s safety. In this article, we’ll break down the essential information that should be plotted […]
Basic and Advanced Functions of ECDIS Officers Must Familiarize
Understanding the basic and advanced functions of the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) is crucial for all deck officers. This essential navigation tool enhances maritime safety by providing real-time charting information. But to fully benefit from it, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) mandates ECDIS training and familiarization for licensed navigational watchkeepers. This guide […]
Procedures for Taking Over the Navigational Watch
Watch changeover is a routine task on board that officers and watchkeepers perform regularly. As simple as it may seem, taking over the watch is very important. This process ensures a smooth transfer of situational awareness from the off-going Officer to the relieving OOW. Due to their importance, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and shipping […]
How To Overtake in a Narrow Channel and Avoid Collision
Ships overtaking in a narrow channel is one of the most challenging parts of navigating inside waterways. The confined waterway, hydrodynamic forces, and the vessels’ proximity increase the risk of collision if proper precautions are not taken. While we have various navigational equipment to monitor the movement of ships in the vicinity, we can’t actually […]
When To Change From Ship’s Autopilot to Manual Steering
Transitioning from automatic steering to manual steering is a decision made based on a keen understanding of the ship’s location and the current situation. Automatic steering, often called autopilot, is a computerized navigation system that automatically maneuvers a ship at a predetermined course. It can be a valuable aid on long voyages. Manual steering, also […]
6 Most Commonly Used ICS Flag Signals On Ships
Flag signals are one of the visual communication methods that many merchant vessels use today. Whenever ships visit a port, you will always see these rectangular colored cloth hoisted on the forward or aft mast. Also referred to as colors, seafarers use nautical flag signals for various reasons. Sometimes, they go with other lights and […]
Identifying Ship’s Lights, Shapes, and Sound Signals
While many ships today upgrade their navigational tools to the latest technology, knowing the lights, shapes, and sound signals is as important as ever. You will find detailed explanations in Parts C and D of COLREGS or the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea. But since that regulation is rich in words and not […]
What is an Automatic Identification System (AIS)? Best Explanation
An Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a maritime communication technology that enables the automatic exchange of navigational information between ship-to-ship and shore stations, enhancing situational awareness and promoting safety at sea. As the name says, you don’t have to call other ships to know more details about them. Just clicking the target’s icon on the […]