PASSAGE PLANNING
The following procedure is to be carried out in preparation for departure from the port. It is the Master responsibility to decide the most appropriate time for testing of gears and ensure that proper entries are made in the Deck / Engine Log Book by the Duty Officer.
Master is reminded that whenever a ship puts to sea, he and navigating officers have a duty both in public and commercial law to navigate competently at all times. The successful outcome of the voyage, safety at sea and the protection of the marine environment are dependent upon their actions.
The Bridge Team, which comprises the Master and all the Navigational Watch keepers, has the vital part in planning a good safe well-planned passage. Each member of the bridge team should have a good idea of the voyage they are embarking and the risks involved. The Master’s decision on the overall conduct of the passage will be based upon an appraisal of the available information which finalised the passage plan.
Second Officer is to construct the passage plan according to the final plan (e.g. laying down the courses on the appropriate charts and highlighted the importance of the navigational area concerned). On completion of the plan, it is to be submitted to the Master for his approval.
In the planning of the passage, the following elements should be taken into consideration:
- a)Review of the general outbound passage characteristics.
- b)Navigational aids available.
- c)Charts, navigational publications, Navigation Warnings etc.
- d)Expected traffic density.
- e)Weather and Tidal conditions.
- f)Pilotage.
- g)Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) procedures and communications.
- h)Berthing and anchoring arrangements.
- i)Engineering considerations.
- j)Voyage – specific amendments or additions to standard emergency procedures.
- k)Determine in advance the needs of the intended voyage by Chief Engineer in consultation with Master such as Fuel, Water, lubricants, chemicals, expendable and other spare parts, tools, supplies and any other requirements.
Note: Appraisal of the available information should be the latest as appropriate and all charts and publication used are corrected up-to-date.
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