Our Blog
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Investigation Results: How “EVER GIVEN” Blocked The Suez Canal
The colossal container ship Ever Given rammed the east bank of the Suez Canal 25 minutes after the pilots boarded and blocked the entire waterway for six days. Due to gusty winds and human error, the mega-ship swung out of control in the early morning of Tuesday, March 23, 2021, while carrying 10,788 containers. According…
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Master’s Payment Order (MPO) Explained
Have you ever wondered how seafarers can send extra funds beyond their regular allotments? The Master’s Payment Order (MPO) is the answer. Since crew members at sea have no access to banking services, the MPO allows seafarers to send money without visiting a bank or remittance center. It’s a convenient method, and if your ship…
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💾 Voyage Data Recorder (VDR): Purpose, Data Logged, S-VDR Differences, IMO Rules
Often called the ship’s “black box,” the Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) silently logs everything from critical system data to bridge audio. But what exactly does it record, and why is it vital for maritime safety? ⚓ What Is a Voyage Data Recorder? A Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) is a marine electronic device that continuously records…
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👨🏼✈️ 12 Types of Ship Captains You’ll Never Forget On Board
Every seafarer remembers their captain. Some for their wisdom, others for their quirks. From calm leaders to micromanaging mariners, each master leaves a lasting impression on their crew. Whether you loved or dreaded sailing with them, here are 12 unforgettable types of ship captains you’ll likely meet during your career at sea. 🌊 1. 🧓…
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👁️ How to Keep a Proper Look-Out at Sea (COLREGS Rule 5 Guide)
Maintaining a proper look-out is one of the core duties of a bridge watchkeeper. Under COLREG Rule 5, every vessel must always observe its surroundings using sight, hearing, and all available means to avoid collisions and navigate safely. Whether you’re in open waters, port approaches, or high-traffic areas, the lookout’s role is non-negotiable. It’s the…
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🗺️ Essential Markings on Nautical Voyage Charts for Safe Navigation (With Examples)
Even with modern ECDIS technology, accurate voyage chart markings remain a critical element of safe navigation and SOLAS-compliant passage planning. Marking your charts, whether paper or ENC, isn’t just tradition; it’s smart seamanship backed by IMO Resolution A.893(21) and expected by Port State Control Officers and vetting inspectors. This guide highlights the essential information every…
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🖥️ Basic and Advanced ECDIS Functions Every Deck Officer Must Know
In modern bridge watchkeeping, mastering the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) is no longer optional- it’s mandatory. As an IMO-compliant digital replacement for paper charts, ECDIS empowers deck officers with real-time navigation, integrated data, and enhanced decision-making tools. But to use ECDIS effectively and legally, every Officer of the Watch (OOW) must undergo…
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📋 Navigational Watch Handover: Procedures, Checklist, and Best Practices
A navigational watch handover– also known as a watch changeover, is the formal transfer of responsibility from one Officer of the Watch (OOW) to another. It marks a critical point in bridge operations where the incoming officer assumes control of navigation, situational awareness, and safety monitoring onboard. This process is more than a routine- it…
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⚓ Anchoring in Deep Waters: Risks, When to Do It, & Safe Procedures for Seafarers
Anchoring is a fundamental operation in ship navigation, but when the seabed lies beyond 50 meters deep, the risks escalate sharply. Most vessels prefer anchoring in depths under 50 meters. Going beyond that presents challenges not addressed by standard anchoring practices. This guide explains why anchoring in deep water is generally discouraged, the situations where…
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⏰ When to Call the Master: 31 Scenarios Every Officer-on-Watch Must Know
Knowing when to call the Master is one of the most important responsibilities of any Officer on Watch (OOW). Whether you’re navigating through heavy traffic, facing an equipment failure, or simply unsure about the vessel’s situation, the Bridge Standing Orders and good seamanship both emphasize one thing: If in doubt, call the Master. ⚓ This…