Category: Navigation Systems

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

The LRIT system architecture might seem like technical jargon for seafarers, but its basic knowledge offers valuable benefits. While fully automatic on board, the LRIT, or Long-range Identification and Tracking system, has a massive infrastructure behind it. Here, we will focus more on the role of the Contracting Governments and the function of different data […]

LRIT and AIS have many differences, especially in their functions and the purpose of their installation. While both equipment are used for tracking vessels, they have stark contrasting features that set them apart. The way they handle data and the recipients of those data also differ because of the underlying infrastructure. Before we discuss their […]

Unlike conventional navigational tools onboard, LRIT operates with a unique functionality.  Ships equipped with Long-Range Identification and Tracking system can transmit their identification and location data via satellite. However, they cannot receive the same information from other vessels directly through this system. The tool is primarily designed for the government and not for ships! Interesting, […]

An Automatic Radar Plotting Aid or ARPA is an essential tool for deck officers navigating the seas. It’s a mariner’s best friend for enhancing situational awareness and collision avoidance by automatically tracking and displaying the movements of target vessels. But this device can only be as good as the user.  Since it has many functions […]

The rate of turn indicator is helpful in many ways on ships, especially during channeling or significant course alterations. When I was a helmsman, I always took time to watch how my fellow ABs countered or stopped a ship’s turn. One of my methods in using the rate of turn indicator, or ROTI, is to […]