The first time I heard about a slop chest on board our vessel was when I was a deck cadet. Knowing the meaning of slops and slop tanks which are storage for wastewater, I never thought it was a store of some sort. I pictured a chest full of dirty coveralls and oily rags as […]
Category: Ship Parts and Equipment
When the Lights Go Out: Importance of Ship’s Emergency Generator
Having power and electricity is vital for ships to function at sea. It does not matter if they are small yachts or huge supertankers. They need energy to run and reach their destination safely. Hence, seafarers perform maintenance schedules for all the machinery and electrical systems on board. But what if all their power-producing equipment […]
What is an Embarkation Ladder and How is it Used?
I must admit. Embarkation ladders were one of the most confusing nautical terms I encountered in school. These two words, simple as they are when separated, got me puzzled when combined. Partly because, the term “embarkation” in the most nautical sense, usually denotes boarding a ship. And the term ladder is something we use to […]
What is an Accommodation Ladder? Regulations, Parts, Maintenance
One of the safest means of accessing a ship is through the use of an accommodation ladder. It is also the most convenient and the most preferred method of many sea folks. Whether at the anchorage or at sea, these ladders had proven their usefulness on board. They fit perfectly in harbors with flat and […]
6 Different Types of Ladders Intended for Use on the Ship’s Side
If you think that using a ladder in a breathtaking setting only happens in movies, think again. The shipping sector also has this kind of struggle especially because the only access to a ship is by means of a ladder! Whether alongside, in the anchorage, or at sea, these ladders are our sole means of […]
Parts of a Merchant Ship & Their Functions Best Explained
Merchant ships are the workhorse of the global economy. We build them in different types and sizes to accomplish specific tasks. But, despite their diversity, merchant ships share common parts and functions. If you are a seaman, you may be familiar with the terms bow, bridge, rudder, thrusters, accommodation, and many others. All types of […]
Mastering Anchor Parts, Chain, and Windlass Arrangement
Anchors are crucial for maintaining a vessel’s position while at sea or docked, and every component—from the anchor itself to the chain, windlass, and fittings—plays a significant role in this process. A well-maintained anchoring system prevents costly failures that can arise from neglected components. Crew members must be knowledgeable about each part and their functions […]
Types of Ship Rudders, Their Essential Parts, and Profiles
Rudders are an important part of a ship. They are installed on small motor boats to the biggest watercraft ever to sail the seas. It is a crucial component of the vessel’s steering system and the whole ship as well. A vessel could be burning or facing a heavy storm but as long as their […]
How Do P/V Valves Work? Everything You Need To Know
Pressure/vacuum (P/V) valves are essential safety devices on tanker ships. They are very important that no tanker vessel can operate without them installed. When I was undergoing a basic tanker training course before coming on board, our instructor hammered into us the fundamental operation of PV valves. It became clear to me how these “breathers” […]
Tanker Ship Parts & Equipment: Everything You Need to Know
Tanker ships, commonly known as “tankers” in the maritime world, are special kinds of vessels designed to carry liquid cargo in bulk. Anything of liquid form can be transported through these ships. Since there are thousands of various liquid goods out there, there are also many types of tankers built. But with the diversity of […]