Seamanship Notes

Seamanship Notes is designed to support students working towards their MCA Certificate of Competency exams. It is also a valuable reference for any seafarer wishing to refresh or update their knowledge, covering navigation, cargo handling and stowage, emergency response, and onboard ship operations.

This book follows the MCA examination syllabus and presents key information in a structured and accessible way. Tables and bullet points highlight essential concepts, making the syllabus less daunting for students. The book also compiles references to publications from the IMO, MCA, International Chamber of Shipping, and other authoritative sources, guiding readers toward additional resources to deepen their understanding.

About the Author

Angus Ferguson gained his Master Mariner Certificate of Competency before transitioning into maritime education. In January 2020, he founded Onboard Maritime, a digital training company committed to making high-quality learning accessible to maritime professionals worldwide.

Table of Contents

Section 1 – Navigation

• Passage Planning
• Navigational Charts and Publications
• Radio Navigational Warnings
• Ships Routeing Information
• Mandatory Reporting Systems
• IALA Systems of Maritime Buoyage
• Electronic Navigation Systems
• Electronic Chart Systems
• Radar and ARPA
• The Azimuth Mirror
• Marine Sextant
• Sources of Meteorological Information
• Meteorological Instruments
• Characteristics of Weather Systems
• Reporting and Recording Systems
• The Principles of Navigational Watchkeeping
• International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS)
• Practical Use of RADAR and ARPA
• Bridge Equipment
• Steering Control Systems
• The Bridge Procedures Guide
• Compasses
• Gyro Compass
• Associated Equipment
• Manoeuvre the Ship
• Preparation and Duties
• Use and Care of Mooring Lines and Associated Equipment
• Ship Handling
• Turning Short Round
• Action in the Event of a Failure
• Proper Procedures for Anchoring

Section 2 – Cargo Handling and Stowage

• Use and Care of Synthetic Fibre and Wire Ropes
• IMO Conventions and Guidelines on Safe Cargo Handling
• Carriage of Goods by Sea
• Use of the Hydrometer

Section 3 – Response to Emergencies

• Response to Navigational Emergencies
• Precautions for Passenger Safety
• Use of the International Aeronautical and Marine Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual
• Distress and Emergency Signals
• Search and Rescue Procedures
• Emergency Parties and Drills
• Fire Prevention and Fire-Fighting Appliances
• Classes of Fire
• Properties of Fire Extinguishers
• Use and Care of Life-Saving Appliances
• Markings on Survival Craft and Equipment
• Launch and Manage Survival Craft
• SOLAS Training Manual
• Basic Principles of Survival
• Emergencies in Port
• Sources of Medical Information
• International Code of Signals
• IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases

Section 4 – Onboard Ship Operations

• MARPOL and Pollution Prevention
• Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP)
• Garbage Management Plan
• Anti-Pollution Equipment
• Watertight Integrity
• Preparations for Heavy Weather
• Legislative Requirements
• Health and Safety Legislation
• IMO Conventions
• International Safety Management (ISM) Code
• The Maritime Labour Convention
• Flag State and Port State Requirements