Marine Operations and Passage Planning

Responsibilities of Operations Manager/Port Captain

• Ensures communication and implementation of passage planning and maneuvering requirements for all vessels under jurisdiction.

Responsibilities of Marine Manager

• Monitors compliance with procedures and collaborates with the Master to support execution of duties.

Passage Planning Overview

• Mandatory passage planning from berth to berth, including intermediate locations like drilling rigs.
• Each voyage must have a detailed Passage Plan, which is updated as necessary.

Master's Role in Passage Planning

• The Master establishes and approves the Passage Plan; preparation can be delegated.
• Consultation with Chief Engineer to confirm vessel readiness in terms of fuel, water, and lubricants is essential.
• Appropriate charts and publications for the planned voyage must be documented.

Safety Considerations

• Courses laid down in the Passage Plan must be safe.
• The Master assesses the need for additional personnel based on the specific conditions of the passage.
• Evaluates risks such as restricted visibility that may impact the safe navigation of the vessel.

Availability and Monitoring of Passage Plan

• Passage Plan must be accessible on the bridge for Bridge Watch Officers.
• Continuous monitoring of the vessel's progress against the Passage Plan is required.
• Any deviations from the planned route must be planned and approved, with changes documented in the Bridge Logbook.

Working with Pilots

• Clear understanding of responsibilities between Pilot and Master is crucial.
• The Master retains ultimate authority and responsibility for vessel safety regardless of the Pilot's presence.
• Pilots become part of the bridge team upon boarding and direct vessel navigation in cooperation with the Master.

Master-Pilot Information Exchange

• Continuous exchange of information regarding navigational procedures, local conditions, and the ship's characteristics during pilotage.
• Each pilotage begins with an information exchange, covering navigation demands and any special local conditions.

Information to be Exchanged

• Presentation of a completed standard Pilot Card and data on vessel handling characteristics.
• Discussion on plans, contingency procedures, weather conditions, water depth, and other navigational challenges.
• Information on berthing, tugs, and mooring arrangements must also be communicated.

Manoeuvring Systems

• Pre-arrival checklists for the bridge and engine room must be completed before approaching any location.
• Rigorous adherence to these checklists is the Master's responsibility.

Routine Testing Requirements

• Routine testing of steering and critical systems is outlined in the vessel's Planned Maintenance System.
• All systems should be documented, including pre-departure checks and emergency communication systems.

Transfer of Manoeuvring Controls

• Transfer of controls must follow strict procedures to prevent accidents, ensuring safety during operation modifications.

Explore the essential responsibilities and procedures for Marine Managers and Operations Managers, focusing on the critical aspects of passage planning for vessels. This quiz covers the roles of the master in establishing safe and compliant passage plans, as well as the safety considerations necessary for successful maritime operations.