How effective communication supports good navigation
The latest issue of The Navigator – The Nautical Institute’s free publication – tackles the important topic of communication and explore how effective communication supports good navigation, looking at both verbal communications and data transmission
Communication and navigation are intrinsically linked. Right from the start of voyage planning, the navigator needs up-to-date information that will affect the passage of the ship, such as chart corrections, Maritime Safety Information (MSI) and weather reports; not to mention charterer’s instructions.
This information needs to be effectively communicated to the vessel and presented in a format that aids decision-making. During the voyage, communication is essential not only among the bridge team onboard, but also with shore authorities such as VTS, and, occasionally, with other ships.
Automated digital communications will become increasingly important, with AIS being a crucial example. Telex, on which Navtex is based, formed the maritime digital communications of yesteryear
We are living in an age that sees large amounts of data routinely sent to ships. However, for this data to be translated into good information that facilitates good decisions, it needs to be accurate, managed, understood and applied correctly – no mean feat.
Good verbal communication is also essential between the bridge team, the Pilot and shore authorities. Language skills, common understanding, the use of the IMO Standard Maritime Communication Phrases (SMCP) and even culture play a great part in ensuring safe and efficient navigation.
Many collisions and groundings have been attributed, directly or indirectly, to poor communication.
Also in this issue:
- Why verbal communications remain an integral part of successful navigation
- How we can make the most of the vast amount of data available to us
- How VHF radio communication failures caused a bulk carrier to collide with a container ship in the middle of the night
- Third Officer Jonas Wiesand comes under the spotlight, discussing his thoughts on communications on the bridge
- Dr Andy Norris, Vice President of the Royal Institute of Navigation, compares the approach to voice radio communications at sea and in the air
- Ten key points for navigators to remember about communications
Learn more by reading The Navigator – Issue 08 published by The Nautical Institute (please click at image below)
Also read relevant SAFETY4SEA article
Lessons Learnt: Effective Communication Between Crew Can Prevent Accidents
