Our Blog
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🛰️ Automatic Identification System (AIS): Purpose, Types, How It Works
An Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a shipboard transponder system that uses Very High Frequency (VHF) radio waves to automatically transmit and receive real-time data between ships and coastal authorities. It enhances maritime safety, improves situational awareness, and supports collision avoidance– especially in congested sea lanes. Under SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 19, AIS is mandatory…
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10 Facts About Dali, The Container Ship That Hit Baltimore Bridge
Dali is a 300-meter container vessel that collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. After the ship hit one of the concrete center pylons, the whole bridge collapsed, resulting in fatalities from construction workers that have yet to be confirmed. Initial reports from eyewitnesses and various sources revealed that the ship…
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🛰️ Understanding the LRIT System Architecture & the Flow of Data
The Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) system is a satellite-based ship monitoring framework mandated by the IMO under SOLAS V/19-1. It allows Contracting Governments to track ships beyond AIS and radar range for maritime safety, security, and environmental protection. While shipboard LRIT operations are automatic, a complex international infrastructure manages the collection, processing, and secure…
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First Time Onboard? A Comprehensive Guide to Joining Your Ship
I recently received a comment from a reader about the embarkation process and how seafarers join their ships. His concern was valid, and I can relate to it, especially on my first contract as a cadet in the deck department. Do you know that uncertain feeling when traveling from your ship to a place you…
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🚢 LRIT vs AIS: 31 Key Differences in Maritime Tracking Systems
Modern ships rely on both LRIT (Long-Range Identification and Tracking) and AIS (Automatic Identification System) for vessel tracking, but these systems serve very different purposes. While both are required under SOLAS regulations, they differ in data accessibility, regulatory use, communication infrastructure, range, and primary function. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for seafarers, navigators, fleet operators,…
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🛰️ What Is LRIT (Long-Range Identification and Tracking)?
The Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) system is a global ship monitoring technology mandated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It enables Contracting Governments to track a ship’s identity and position via satellite, even beyond the horizon. Unlike AIS (Automatic Identification System), which is ship-to-ship and local, LRIT is satellite-based and one-way: ships transmit data…
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🚢 Echo Sounders on Ships: How Depth Sounders Ensure Safe Navigation
An echo sounder, also called a depth sounder or fathometer, is a vital navigation instrument that measures the depth of water beneath a ship’s keel in real time. Unlike surface-based tools, this device provides seafarers with crucial data about the underwater terrain, helping prevent groundings, confirm charted depths, and maintain safe under keel clearance (UKC).…
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✅ 20 Crucial ARPA Functions Deck Officers Must Know for Collision Avoidance
An Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA) is a vital navigational system that enhances radar capability by automating the detection, tracking, and analysis of multiple targets. Installed on most SOLAS-compliant ships, ARPA empowers deck officers to make informed, real-time decisions to avoid collisions and improve situational awareness-especially in congested or restricted waters. Unlike conventional marine radar,…
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52 Most Common Deck Cadet Interview Questions & Answer Tips
A company interview is one of the most important stages of a deck cadet’s journey for onboard employment. But despite its significance, many find this part difficult, even when answering the most basic interview questions. One reason is their unpreparedness; they might get it wrong and fail the job application. But knowing the possible questions…
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🛠️ Chief Engineer Duties, Responsibilities, and Salary
The Chief Engineer– often called the ChEng, C/E, or simply Chief, is the highest-ranking officer in the Shipboard Engineering Department. He holds full responsibility for the operation, maintenance, and safety of all machinery systems onboard. Reporting directly to the Master, the Chief Engineer ensures compliance with international regulations such as SOLAS, MARPOL, and the ISM…