All at Sea - The Navigator Issue 2
Following a successful first edition of The Navigator, in which we examined the role and responsibilities of the navigating officer, this second issue moves on to discuss the content, application and crucial nature of the collision avoidance regulations. Again, we turned to our LinkedIn community to find out their views.
In over 20 years of being a watch-keeper/Master, I didn’t come across a situation whereby the Rules didn’t get me out of trouble… so long as everyone else was following them too.
Captain Neil Gardiner, MNI
The Colregs provide a critical basis for understanding a navigating situation and deciding on possible action, both for one’s own ship and powered targets. I would emphasise good practical understanding of the ‘Rules of the Road’ and good decision-making skills.
Suleiman Bakari
I prefer people to just stay off the radio and follow the rules. In most cases, the use of the radio is counterproductive and distracting.
Kerry Thomas
No matter how well-versed students are in the Colregs theory they can still find it hard to apply these rules to ‘real life’ situations.
Marlous Mes
Mentoring the juniors to ensure correct following of the rules is an essential part of the senior officer’s responsibility.
Robert Parker MNI
Putting yourself in the position of the other vessel can in many instances, avoid risk of collision or even a close quarters situation arising in the first place.
Captain Stanley Richard-dit-Leschery, AFNI
The next issue will focus on passage planning We look forward to hearing from you!
If you would like to send us your letters, comments or ideas, please contact the editor at navigator@nautinst.org
Join the debate on LinkedIn or follow us on Twitter. A PDF of this publication can be downloaded here