Our Blog
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📖 Bridge Standing Orders: What Every Officer of the Watch Must Know
Bridge Standing Orders are mandatory guidelines every Officer of the Watch (OOW) must follow to ensure safe navigation and proper bridge discipline. From routine watchkeeping to emergency situations like poor visibility or equipment failure, these orders guide decisions and reinforce the Master’s authority. Whether you’re a cadet or a licensed officer, mastering these rules is…
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📝 Chief Mate Duties, Responsibilities, and Salary
The Chief Mate, also known as the Chief Officer or First Mate, is the second-highest-ranking officer on a merchant vessel, reporting directly to the Master. As the head of the Deck Department, the Chief Mate plays a critical leadership role in the safe and efficient operation of the ship. He deputizes for the Captain during…
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Minimum Requirements for Becoming a Dean in a Maritime College
One of the many jobs seafarers should consider on shore is to become a Dean in a maritime college. Specifically, this profession suits management-level officers and engineers. If you want to retire your sea life while taking advantage of your rank, seek a position as a Dean in maritime schools. Who knows you may become…
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Career Opportunities for BSMT & BSMarE Graduates Aside from Seafaring
Nautical and marine graduates have other career opportunities available aside from becoming a seafarer. You don’t have to blindly follow the crowd and take the path most taken. It’s already overcrowded and many gave up that idea due to desperation. Besides, we sometimes know in our hearts that seafaring is not for us. I met…
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Advanced Fire Fighting Course: What You Need to Know
Advanced fire fighting is one of the required training for seafarers wishing to work on board. According to the STCW Convention, the course is mandatory for every master, mate, chief engineer, second engineer, and officer of a watch (OIC). It is also recommended to support level seafarers. However, many shipping companies require them to take…
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Do You Know Someone? IMO is Looking for the Bravest Hero at Sea
The ocean is not for the faint-hearted. And that’s where heroes are made. Since 2007, the IMO awarded individuals who displayed exceptional bravery at sea under extreme situations. These people put their lives on the line to rescue others in distress or prevent a major catastrophe from happening. Seafarers, Ship Masters, pilots, rescue swimmers, aviators,…
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👨✈️ Ship Master’s Job Description: Duties, Responsibilities, & Salary
The Ship Master, also known as the Captain or Master Mariner, is the highest authority onboard a vessel. He has total command over the ship, its cargo, and its crew. From navigation and safety to legal compliance and crew discipline, everything falls under his watch. In maritime law and company operations, the Master is considered…
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🥨 10 Most Useful Rope Knots Every Seafarer Must Know on Ships
Rope work is part of a seafarer’s daily routine. Whether it’s mooring, lifting gear, rigging stages, or securing ladders, none of these tasks are complete without the use of ropes and more importantly, knots. That’s why knot-tying is a critical seamanship skill required on every vessel. From the bridge to the engine room, deckhands, officers,…
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How to Become a Ship Captain in the Philippines
Becoming a ship captain involves lots of sacrifices in time, money, and effort. The process is challenging because the job of commanding a vessel is serious. Due to that responsibility, the master of a ship is compensated greatly compared to other crew. A ship captain in the Philippines sailing on international vessels is one of…
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☸ How to Steer a Ship: 7 Helmsman Tips for Safe & Skilled Navigation
Steering a ship isn’t just about turning the wheel. It’s about precision, timing, and awareness of forces acting on the vessel- elements every helmsman must master. From deck cadets to ordinary seamen preparing for their first bridge watch, this guide delivers the real-world insights you need to sharpen your skills and boost your confidence on…