Using internet today is like breathing air. While you cannot see it around, it is of outmost importance for the proper function of everyday activities.
Of course the seafaring profession does not remain unaffected, as the increasing digitalization onboard, provide many benefits, as well as drawbacks.
Pros
- Banking, bills, and shopping: The Internet provides access to your bank account to view the balance, make transactions, and send money.
- Communication with loved ones: Emergencies at home can be immediately communicated onboard, and seafarers do not have to wait till the end of the day to make a satellite call.
- Entertainment: The Internet gives everyone access to an endless supply of entertainment, with access to watch videos, watch movies, listen to music, and even play games online.
- Address, mapping, and contact information: With the help of GPS technology, the Internet helps map and direct you to almost every place in the world.
- Quick reference to new regulations: While most of these are communicated by in house company circulars, more information can be easily obtained by visiting relevant websites.
Cons
- Rest Hours: Unrestricted and round the clock internet access brings the urge to use the facility unnecessarily.
- 2. Distraction: Several times seafarers get distracted in their work due to excessive use of internet.
- Offensive Posts: There is an increasing tendency among seafarers to vent out their frustration.
- Internet Piracy: Internet is filling each day more and more with cyber-security traps, and seafarers must be careful in order to ensure their online safety.
- Bridge Watchkeeping: The Master needs to make it absolutely that none of the bridge equipment technology should interfere with watchkeeping.
