Navigation/deck survey

This section details the summary report of the navigation/deck survey. It's divided by standards of training certification and watchkeeping (STCW) competence and, then by knowledge, understanding and proficiency.

Plan and conduct a passage and determine position

1. Celestial navigation

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 263
No 77

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 139
High 194

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

Respondents were split on the section covering celestial navigation and its importance today. There were strong sets of opinion on the use and importance of this subject in the plan and conduct of a passage and position determination.

Some respondents recommended that training requirements on celestial navigation should be removed as the modern nature of navigation does not require it anymore. Others recommended that it should be made compulsory as it is essential, because while the Navstar (GPS), GLONASS and other satellite systems can be jammed or turn off, the master still needs to confirm the ship`s position. Therefore, heavenly bodies such as the sun, moon and stars have to be used for this purpose.

There were other recommendations from respondents, suggesting that while the basic understanding of celestial navigation is still required and an excellent skill to maintain, this should be taught at a reduced level without much emphasis on it anymore. The Nautical almanac should remain intact for those that still require practice and use for celestial observations.

The following are additional points raised for and/or against this topic:

  • Some respondents recommended the removal of some celestial calculations in return for software programs which must be made mandatory for carriage on board.

  • The basic understanding and principles should still be taught, and calculations should still be done in classwork, but there should not be an exam on it as it is no longer relevant to the job.

  • There were people that suggested that only “old-time” captains and senior officers know how to do it properly at present because they had to use it during their time when it was the only form of fixing a position on an ocean passage, and they had to be good at it. This is not the case anymore.

  • Because of the commercial introduction of GLONASS, GPS and other satellite position-fixing methods, taking sights by sextant is no longer relevant.

  • The newer generation will not develop the competency needed to use a sextant and fix positions if they do not have to use it regularly because of the presence of sophisticated position-fixing equipment available onboard on modern ships and changes in bridge structure/construction.

  • There is too much time spent on training in this area compared with more modern navigation and position-fixing methods used at sea.

  • Knowledge regarding plotting of celestial sight on ECDIS should be incorporated onto the main course if necessary.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

The availability of electronic means of position fixing means that celestial navigation skill is not as essential as it used to be. A modern-day navigator can sail without ever having to take celestial sights to determine their position but may use it to determine its compass error.

It means that part of the time spent on celestial navigation training can be dedicated to other relevant topics that are important to a navigator today.

Good celestial calculation software should be approved and, if required, training on its use should be encouraged.

2. Terrestrial and coastal navigation

2.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 320
No 19

2.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 40
High 292

2.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

The majority of respondents (94%) agreed that this section was still relevant today. Considering the use of ECDIS is the primary means of navigation on most ships today, there is much argument in favour of focusing more time on training the officers on the practical use of ECDIS, or time shared equally between both ECDIS and paper chart training as some ships are still using paper charts as their primary means of navigation.

Until paper charts are a no longer used, it will remain essential to train officers in their use and practices. Doing this would mean that enough time is spent on teaching officer parallel index techniques, chart/ENC corrections and maintenance on both paper charts and ECDIS in preparation for their time at sea.

This will ensure that the fundamental knowledge of the use of paper charts is not lost, while a considerable amount of time is spent on ECDIS training, in addition to the stand-alone ECDIS course that is also mandatory.

Dead reckoning by use of ECDIS should be highlighted and more simulator-based training should be used to follow up on passage planning and traffic scenarios.

Specific tide calculations, like secondary port calculations, can be removed as most vessels carry Total Tide software today. The requirement to be proficient/excellent at tidal calculations is somewhat redundant as software and resources such as Total Tide is used on almost all ships.

2.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section can be amended to place extra emphasis on the use of ECDIS on ships and robust training on the subject and competency assessment. There are many shipping companies using paper charts and ECDIS side by side due to ENC chart`s limitations. Therefore, delivering adequate training for both is currently essential.

3. Electronic systems of position fixing and navigation

3.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 328
No 10

3.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 10
High 325

3.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

The majority of respondents (97%) agreed that this section was still relevant and vital today.

An overwhelming number of respondents recommended that LORAN C should be removed from the syllabus as it is not being used anymore on most ships, or it should be taught as a way of illustrating E-LORAN existence only.

Recommendations also suggested more emphasis should be given to other electronic means of navigation/position fixing equipment as they are the primary means now. Also, the requirement for more simulator training on bridge equipment and scenarios would be highly beneficial to safety.

On the other hand, training on detecting flawed results or errors from GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO and other systems can be increased; as well as first aid to recover a frozen system, indications that a system is not working correctly and other common pitfalls. As we live in the age of technology where these systems need to be used with the correct knowledge to prevent mistakes and dangerous over-reliance.

Passage planning on ECDIS should be covered in more detail and Dead reckoning by use of ECDIS should be highlighted.

3.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section can remain the way it is. Mandatory critical equipment contingency planning and troubleshooting arrangement training can be added. The bridge equipment LORAN C has been excluded from the revised MNTB guidelines.

4. Echo sounders

4.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 329
No 8

4.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 28
High 304

4.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

98% of respondents agreed that echo sounders is a critical and beneficial navigational equipment because knowing how much water you have under the keel will always be a relevant and vital piece of information. Otherwise, you may be aground and do not know it.

More can be done to train officers to get the necessary knowledge on how to set up the equipment properly for optimum performance.

Understanding of the safety margins, safety depths and how the echo sounder can assist in cross checking this should be emphasised.

4.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section can remain the way it is. Training on echo sounder safety depth and alarm setting should be emphasised, including system data retrieval/printout.

5. Compass magnetic and gyro

5.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 325
No 10

5.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 37
High 296

5.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

The majority of respondents (97%) agreed that this section was still relevant today.

A few respondents did recommend the removal of the magnetic compass from the syllabus and the need to correct the magnetic compass because a professional compass adjuster mostly does this on ships today. There is also the availability of a GPS compass and gyro compass.

They also recommended that the knowledge and understanding of how the various available compasses work and are needed, because an officer must understand the principles of that equipment to understand what happens when they press a button.

While magnetic compass adjustment is still in the syllabus, compass adjustment should also be taught with more detail at the lower levels as the master often tries to delegate compass responsibility to the Officer of the watch (OOW), even without proper experience.

They also recommended less in-depth knowledge of gyro equipment and how it works but with more training on error and calculations.

5.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section can remain the way it is.

6. Steering control systems

6.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 329
No 7

6.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 16
High 316

6.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

The majority of respondents (98%) agreed that this section was still relevant today.

On steering control systems, respondents recommended the addition of more training on the operational procedures and setting of this equipment using various control options; as well as in-depth training on the emergency procedure to be employed if the equipment fails or how to respond appropriately.

Training on the awareness of the loss of steering and changeover procedures, and knowledge of the emergency steering systems, including the solenoids, was also recommended. The training also depends on the type of control system carried on an individual ship. But if the right training is given to an officer, they will most likely be able to apply this knowledge on any vessel they sail on.

6.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain the way it is.

7. Meteorology

7.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 320
No 17

7.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 47
High 284

7.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

95% of the participants agreed that this section was still relevant today.

Respondents recommended more training on the use of modern/electronic weather equipment as weather fax and other outdated equipment are mainly redundant these days. More emphasis should be placed on modern means of gathering weather information, for example, the internet, errors from different sources and their limitations, including electronic weather routing systems and services.

Respondents did question the teaching time allocated for equipment like barograph and aneroid barometers, recommending that this should be removed as it is not often used or even applicable. Also, a standardised teaching criterion to avoid some lecturers over complicating the subject.

7.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section can remain the way it is. However, training on meteorological equipment rarely used onboard a modern ship should be removed from the syllabus. Optimum training time to be provided for modern equipment, software and online systems that seafarers use or have available to them daily.

Maintain a safe navigational watch

1. Watchkeeping

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 337
No 1

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 7
High 329

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

100% of respondents agreed that this section was still relevant today. Most respondents agreed that this section is well written and should remain the way it is.

Others recommended that improvement could be made in the areas of simulator use where the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) will require that cadets get X amount of hours per week in the simulator to develop their decision making and situational awareness skills while working under pressure.

This simulator training is needed with various situations and scenarios so that the cadet is prepared for the task of an Officer of the Watch (OOW), as bridge watchkeeping is where the OOW spends most of their working time onboard.

Bridge watchkeeping simulator time will therefore deliver well-prepared officers ready to face the maritime industry. The simulator training should be planned with acceptable practices of bridge watchkeeping on board.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendations

This section is generally well written and can remain as is.

More simulator time should be made available as part of the training program to help Officers and Cadets achieve all-round knowledge and the understanding needed to demonstrate competence in preparation for sea service.

2. Bridge resource management

2.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 326
No 10

2.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 34
High 295

2.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

Respondents did recommend adding bridge alarms management to the topics that should be covered under Bridge resource management. At the same time, some suggested integrating Bridge Resource Management with NAEST or HELM courses and removed from here. 

2.4 Advisor’s recommendation

Bridge resource management involves the proper coordination of bridge equipment, personnel, and procedures for the overall goal of safe navigation and watchkeeping. It involves effective communication, good situational awareness, and adequate prioritisation of resources. There should be more practical elements in HELM courses.

This section is generally well written and can stay the way it is.

Use of radar and ARPA to maintain safety of navigation

1. Radar navigation

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 334
No 3

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 4
High 327

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

The majority of respondents (99%) agreed that this section is well written and still relevant today.

Respondents recommended that RM True Trails should be added as best practice, more should be taught about radar overlay functionality and additional practical simulation training.

Others suggested that maintenance and troubleshooting of Radar equipment should be taught, including the interface of the radar and other bridge equipment.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain as is.

Simulator time should be encouraged as part of the training program to help Officer cadets to use the radar and ARPA for practice, so that the knowledge and understanding needed to demonstrate competence can be gained. Training should emphasise the limitations of radar or ARPA equipment.

2. Principal types of ARPA, their display characteristics, performance standards and the dangers of over reliance on ARPA

2.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 326
No 8

2.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 12
High 316

2.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

The majority of the respondents (98%) agreed that this section is still relevant and important today.

Some recommended the addition of manual plotting techniques to the ARPA section. In contrast, others recommended the total removal of manual plotting techniques, as it is irrelevant to the modern bridge, because it only serves as a distraction to the OOW who must deal with other navigational functions simultaneously.

2.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain the way it is.

More simulator time should be made available as part of the training program to help Officer cadets use the radar and ARPA for practice to ensure that the knowledge and understanding needed to demonstrate competence can be gained.

Use of ECDIS to maintain the safety of navigation

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 328
No 7

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 12
High 315

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

98% of the respondents agreed that this section was still relevant today.

Respondents recommended a few changes to this section. Suggesting that more time should be given to ECDIS training and made part of the full syllabus of training instead of it being a standalone short course. ECDIS is now a modern ship navigation equipment which is here to stay, and too little time is spent on this at college when compared with time spent on paper chart navigation.

Training should also include chart correction and update procedures, use of various functions, Ts and Ps, Notice to Mariners, licence and data update, maintenance, ECDIS user cybersecurity awareness and system freeze or overload response.

Respondents also recommended a standardised ECDIS user display and operation as there are too many differences between manufacturers. Until this happens, type-specific training must also be emphasised with robust passage planning practice on ECDIS.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written but could do with some amendments that will promote better understanding in system, software and chart updates; such as maintenance and fault response measures to ensure a smooth practical use and all-round knowledge of the ECDIS equipment. The training should emphasise the limitations of ECDIS.

Respond to emergencies

1. Emergency procedures

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 336
No 2

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 10
High 324

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

Although most respondents (99%) agree that this section can remain as is, some recommended more scenario-based bridge simulator exercises covering the various kinds of onboard emergencies and manoeuvres.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain the way it is.

Simulator training on responses to the different onboard emergencies, if introduced, can provide improved knowledge and understanding needed to prepare the Officer Cadets for their time onboard as Officer of the watch (OOW).

Respond to a distress signal at sea

1. Search and rescue

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 336
No 1

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 15
High 319

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

The majority of respondents agreed that this section can remain as is and that this section was still relevant today.

Some suggested that more simulator training exercises, covering distress situations at sea, should be added to training scenarios.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This is section is generally well written and can remain the way it is.

More simulator training or exercises covering distress situations at sea should be added and encouraged for improved training. A better understanding of the IAMSAR manual content should be gained through the simulator exercise scenarios.

Use the IMO standard marine communication phrases and use English in written and oral form

1. English language

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 326
No 7

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 26
High 304

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

98% of the respondents agreed that this section was still relevant. Most respondents agreed that the English language standard should be improved to assist with general onboard communication, during distress and emergencies.

More training is required in the area of written and spoken maritime English for all nationalities.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This is well written and can remain the way it is.

Transmit and receive information by visual signalling

1. Visual signalling

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 210
No 122

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 194
High 132

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

A majority of respondents (63%) agreed that this section was still relevant today. However, a high number of respondents gave a low to average grade when it came to the importance of this competence today.

Most agreed that the knowledge of flags and distress signalling is still relevant to today’s navigator, but not so much for Morse Code signalling, which is rarely used at sea, if at all.

An overwhelming number of respondents recommended that Morse Code signalling is not essential today and should be removed from the competence requirement. There is not enough time on a modern ship for Morse Code signalling and communications when dealing with distress and emergencies in real time.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section can remain the way it is, although with less focus on Morse Code signalling at the training level.

Even though Morse Code signalling is rarely used at sea, it is not yet obsolete as certain elements of COLREG sound signals in restricted visibility, identification of buoys, lights and some offshore installations can be related to Morse Code. The same goes for flags used for signals during pilotage, carrying dangerous goods, diver(s) below and distress signalling.

Manoeuvre the ship

1. Ship manoeuvring and handling

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 332
No 1

1.2 I Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 20
High 308

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

The majority of respondents agreed that this section was comprehensive enough the way it is.

Some suggested amendments to include more simulator training for enhanced learning using different scenario-based situations, locations, ship design and propulsion etc., and to cover all types of propulsion, steering and power systems now used on a modern ship.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain the way it is.

More use of simulator training in this area can be encouraged and training on interaction and the squat effect.

Monitor the loading, stowage, securing, care during the voyage and the unloading of cargoes

1. Cargo handling, stowage and securing

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 315
No 11

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 32
High 285

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

Most of the respondents agreed that this section is comprehensive enough as it is.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain the way it is.

Some of the comments and suggestions seem to be directed at colleges and how they can improve on training delivery.

Generally, training delivery should be modernised to reflect actual practices and modern cargo handling equipment/procedures. This can be done through the removal of all the outdated topics and the addition of emergency situations, responses and case studies.

Inspect and report defects and damage to cargo spaces, hatch covers and ballast tanks

1. Knowledge and ability to explain where to look for damage and defects commonly encountered due to loading and unloading operations, corrosion and severe weather conditions

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 314
No 10

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 33
High 279

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

Most of the respondents agreed that this section is comprehensive enough as it is.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain as is.

Ensure compliance with pollution prevention requirements

1. Prevention of pollution of the marine environment and anti-pollution procedures

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 319
No 2

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 7
High 308

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

99% of the respondents agreed that this section is comprehensive enough as it is. Training on environmental compliance should continue and be strongly emphasised.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain as is.

Maintain seaworthiness of the ship

1. Ship stability, ship construction

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 332
No 6

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 17
High 302

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

98% of respondents agreed that this section should be amended to limit or remove long and complex stability calculations that are rarely practiced onboard. However, there should be an increased focus on the use of stability electronic software, loading computers and systems used on ships. It should include training on the use and interpretation of details in the intact stability and damage stability booklets.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain as is.

There are different types of software that can be used for ship stability computation, which are highly recommended. Training on their correct use is highly recommended.

Prevent, control and fight fires onboard

1. Fire prevention and fire-fighting appliances

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 327
No 0

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 6
High 316

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

None.

100% of the respondents agreed that this section was still relevant today. This section is well written and can remain as is.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain as is.

Operate life-saving appliances

1. Lifesaving

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 324
No 0

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 6
High 314

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

All respondents agreed that this section is still relevant today. There was a recommendation for the addition of modern lifesaving apparatus such as Marine Evacuation System (MES) to LSA training, as this equipment is present on cruise ships. This included how to maintain equipment certifications and the dangers involved in launching and recovery operations.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain as is.

Most recommendations from respondents are already covered in this section, including some LSA items that might not be individually listed. The training on the operation, use and function of all types of LSA, including Marine Evacuation Systems (MES), is essential to all seafarers whether the equipment is present onboard or not.

Apply medical first aid onboard ship

1. Medical aid

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 323
No 2

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 20
High 300

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

Most respondents agreed that this section should remain as is.

A recommendation was made for the addition of AED training and Mental Health training at operational and management levels, and five-yearly refreshers for this competency.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section can be updated to cover mental health training at a level appropriate and applicable to all seafarers.

Monitor compliance with legislative requirements

1. Basic working knowledge of IMO conventions concerning safety of life at sea, security and protection of the marine environment

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 323
No 1

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 32
High 288

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

100% of the respondents agreed that this section is still relevant today and can remain as is.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation:

This section is well written and can remain as is.

Application of leadership and team working skills

1. Working knowledge of shipboard personnel management and training

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 297
No 26

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 67
High 251

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

The majority of respondents (92%) agreed that this section is still relevant today and should be kept as is.

Recommendations were made for the addition of training on Coaching and Mentoring of less experienced Officers and Ratings, including the addition of equality and diversity training.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written.

Contribute to the safety of personnel and ship

1. Knowledge of personal survival techniques, Knowledge of prevention and ability to fight and extinguish fires, Knowledge of elementary first aid, Knowledge of personal safety and social responsibility

1.1 Is competency requirement still relevant today?

Yes 325
No 0

1.2 Importance of competency today?

Grading: 1 to 5 (1 being low, 5 being high)

Low to average 14
High 307

1.3 Summary of respondents’ recommendations

Most respondents agreed that this section should remain as is.

1.4 Advisor’s recommendation

This section is well written and can remain as is.

What areas of seafarer’s training could be introduced or enhanced to reflect today’s onboard operational requirement?

Further comments (regarding STCW review)

If you would like to see further comments on the STCW review please read the comments from the standards of training, certification and watchkeeping review survey report.