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How to Calculate Sunrise and Sunset Using The Nautical Almanac

by | Last updated Dec 7, 2023 | How-to Guide, Navigation | 0 Comments

I still have notes for calculating sunrise and sunset in my first cadetship on a tanker vessel. We used paper charts back then, and the second mate suddenly asked me to determine the sunrise and sunset on our current latitude and longitude while at anchor. That task opened...

12 Signs That You’re Dragging Anchor and What to Do About It

by | Last updated Dec 4, 2023 | Accidents and Disasters, Emergency Preparedness, Maritime Safety, Navigation | 0 Comments

Every seasoned seafarer knows how precarious a dragging anchor can be.  It's one thing that keeps captains awake at night, especially when the weather gets bad, and you're anchored close to the shore or with other vessels nearby. If your anchor drags, it's not just the...

How to ACCURATELY Calculate Your Anchor Swinging Circle

by | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | How-to Guide, Maritime Safety | 0 Comments

Throughout my sailing career, I learned two different ways to calculate the swinging circle of a ship while anchored. The first method is quick but less accurate, while the second is more precise. I emphasized "ACCURATELY" in all caps letters because I've seen how the proper...

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What You Should Do If You Become the Ship Security Officer

What You Should Do If You Become the Ship Security Officer

Last updated Nov 24, 2023

Being a Ship Security Officer or an SSO can be a challenging job. You're not only required to perform your regular tasks but also in charge of the vessel's security, whether at sea or in port. This role is so important that in order for the ISPS...

How to Write an Application Letter for Seafarers – Tips & Examples

Writing an application letter has become one of the most critical steps in securing a maritime job. This is true, especially for fresh graduates who are just starting out. If you want to get ahead in applying for any position on board, crafting a well-written...

Third Officer Duties and Responsibilities: The Ultimate Guide

A Third Officer is a crucial member of the deck department on board merchant vessels. As a licensed mariner, his duties and responsibilities are extensive and critical to the safety and efficiency of the vessel's operations. The fundamental aspect of his job is...

Bonded Store and Slop Chest in Ships – What’s the Difference?

The first time I heard about a slop chest on board our vessel was when I was a deck cadet.  Knowing the meaning of slops and slop tanks which are storage for wastewater, I never thought it was a store of some sort. I pictured a chest full of dirty coveralls and...

Seafarer Packing List – What to Bring When Joining Your Ship

Every time you join a ship for work, it's always a must to bring all the necessary items in your luggage.  I know the pain of realizing that I forgot useful items upon reaching my cabin and that’s why I created this seafarer packing list to help you as well. You...